Yosemite climbing routes. Nov 13, 2023 · This article provides an in-depth look at the Yosemite Decimal System, a widely-used grading system for rock climbing and hiking routes. Jan 30, 2024 · The iconic rock climbing routes in Yosemite Valley attract climbers from all over the world, offering a thrilling and challenging experience. Although this is a first 5. This 208 page full-color printed guidebook includes unprecedented route detail such as climbing strategy, retreat information, descent topos, pitch lengths, and gear recommendations for each pitch. Discover the highlights. May 26, 2017 · On the west coast of America, in central California lies Yosemite National Park. They commissioned the base image of this poster and it was the "centerfold Dec 26, 2024 · El Capitan is a breathtaking granite monolith in Yosemite National Park. . Is it a "true" El Cap big wall route? It's definitely more of a wall 5 days ago · Commitment is one of Yosemite's best 5. org | (209) 742-1000 Museum Address: 5180 CA-140, Mariposa, CA 95338 | Mailing Address: PO Box 2006, Mariposa, CA 95338 From discovering the best trad climbing routes to sleeping overnight on the big wall, read this complete guide about everything on El Capitan Grades at Yosemite. The climbing varies from 3rd class walking on May 22, 2025 · Located in the heart of Yosemite National Park, the Rostrum is a world-renowned destination for rock climbing enthusiasts. This route is substantially more involved than the Nose or Salathé but technically easier than the Shield or Zodiac. It boasts large clean corners from the ground to summit with moderate yet sustained climbing. He named his new route, in his usual punning mode, Nutcracker Sweet. El Capitan is Yosemite's majestic icon known for its sheer cliff face and stunning views. This is an excellent first Yosemite multi-pitch climb with great views, and a chance to gain significant elevation while getting a feel for the granite. 9. The Nutcracker, rated 5. The route is recognized in the historic climbing text Fifty Classic Climbs of North America and is considered a classic around the Jul 13, 2025 · SuperTopo rock climbing route info on: El Capitan - Mescalito - Yosemite Valley, California USA. It does not Jun 14, 2024 · Here are 10 lessons I learned for a sweet Yosemite vacation: Jenn Flemming reaches for a comfortingly large knob on New Diversions (5. 8-5. Not already a member? Sign up for free and join our growing global community of rock climbers. The Nose is a big wall climbing route up El Capitan. Some element of adventure always seemed to be missing from my Yosemite climbs on the Valley's perfect sunny granite. Possibly the most famous climb in the world, The Nose is the route. Aug 19, 2019 · This made the rounds in Yosemite circles a few months back, but it’s such an amazing photo project that it deserves a wider audience. Once thought to be unclimbable, granite monoliths including Half Dome and El Capitan have now hosted record-breaking solo, free and all-female climbs. Thanks to Jimmy Chin, I received a call from National Geographic in 2010. Tenuous lieback moves under a large roof leads to strenuous and exhilarating 5. 9 Valley route for many climbers, there is nothing easy about Commitment. These areas offer easier routes where you can practice and build your Reviewers and Yosemite Climbing Experts praise: “SuperTopo guidebooks have widely become known for quality topos, detailed route descriptions and excellent information that will get you to and from the climb with ease. South Face of Washington Column The only truly novice bigwall in the Valley, the South Face is incredible. 11 sections and the rest is mostly 5. After a few wandering approach pitches, the bulk of the route follows tasty crack systems in an excellent exposed position. Explore the most popular rock climbing trails in Yosemite National Park with hand-curated trail maps and driving directions as well as detailed reviews and photos from hikers, campers and nature lovers like you. Seasonality: Visit Mountain Project regarding optimal climb months and other useful, community-generated data. SuperTopo - offers the world's best rock climbing, bouldering, and big wall route info, featuring discussion, trip reports and and gear reviews for climbing areas like Yosemite, Alaska, and the Southwest. The only hard section, a 5. Expect sustained climbing, tons of jamming and several sections of burly offwidth. I had always had a interest in alpine climbing (as many of my generation did) stemming from my introduction to climbing through reading the history of the classic ascents of the Alps and other great ranges. An excellent route on perfect Yosemite granite featuring interesting, continuous and varied climbing. Yosemite Big Walls also includes historical information garnered from interviews with first ascentionists that bring these spectacular big wall climbs to life. The photography wizards Eric Hanson of Blueplanet VR and Greg Downing of HyperAcuity created an extremely high resolution, zoomable image of El Capitan, complete with red lining of routes and a climbing team in action on the Nose. 4 to 5. It is also the most direct access to the swimming pools above Lower Yosemite Fall. While climbing the route one will encounter liebacking, hand jamming, finger jamming, delicate smearing and an exposed mantle crux. Sep 23, 2008 · Find rock climbing routes, photos, and guides for every state, along with experiences and advice from fellow climbers. 14 (F3 to F8c), with everything from single pitch routes to 1,000m+ routes on El Cap. 1. Get all you need to know for an epic ascent. A pin-scarred corner leads to a biceps-blasting undercling traverse, then a sustained, fingers and thin Jun 25, 2006 · Find rock climbing routes, photos, and guides for every state, along with experiences and advice from fellow climbers. " It consists of sustained physical climbing, off-widths, chimneys and awkward climbing. The route faces east and is very hot on summer mornings but bearable by the afternoon. Use the below chart to see which routes are available on the SuperTopo web site or use this chart to compose your dream tick-list of Yosemite classics. 3 days ago · The Steck-Salathe is a route with a reputation as a "hard 5. Looking for more pro tips? Visit Yosemite Mountaineering School and Guide Service. It is recognized in the historic climbing text Fifty Classic Climbs of North America and considered a classic around the world. Dec 15, 2019 · Yosemite is Known for Big Walls, But What About The Smaller Stuff? Here, I Recommend My Favorite Top Rope and Single Pitch Climbing in Yosemite Valley. Developed in the 1950s in Yosemite National Park, this system was created by rock climbers to standardize ratings for various routes. The moves are consistently fun with an exceptional finishing crack. 6 friction at the top that spooks out those unaccustomed to lowangle holdless climbing. Some of the popular spots for beginners include Swan Slab and Manure Pile Buttress. Perhaps the most well-known climbing destination in world. This thing is steep and most of the splitter cracks take perfect hands and fingers (there are a few offwidth sections, too Bigwall Route Descriptions (Here is a sample of the route info / beta available in Yosemite Bigwalls: The Ultimate Guide!) Beginner Routes (easier to harder) Click the route name to read more about that route. That said, Royal Arches is committing and has benighted more than a few climbers. Jul 13, 2025 · Easy hauling, a straightforward approach and a great location make Zodiac the first El Cap route for many climbers. The YDS scale divides routes into classes based on the physical effort, technical skill, and risk 6 days ago · The regular route of Higher Cathedral Spire was considered the "test piece" valley climb at the time of the first ascent in 1934 by climbing legends, Jules Eichorn, Bestor Robinson, and Dick Leonard. Yosemite Big Walls: 3rd Edition is the most current, detailed, and accurate guide to Yosemite's most classic walls such as El Cap and Half Dome. SuperTopo offers the world's best big wall rock climbing and mountaineering route information for Yosemite National Park in both online downloadable format and in printed books Mar 19, 2024 · I had found the answer to that age-old climbing question, “How the hell do you avoid the crowds on moderate classics?” Rather than depart at an obscenely early hour or climb quickly, which I couldn’t do at the time, I delved into the world of less-traveled lines. What they're describing is the difficulty level of the climb and the rating is from the Yosemite Decimal System (YDS). A selective guidebook describing over 750 of the very best free rock climbing routes in Yosemite Valley, from 5. The route's wild crux is well, committing. The climbing is clean and exposed, following a series of large features through overhanging rock. What is clear, is that The Rostrum features probably the best eight-pitch crack collection in the Valley. Jun 13, 2025 · With 800+ routes, world-class granite, and a vibrant community, Yosemite remains the gold standard for rock climbing. 4 days ago · Because of the long approach and north-facing orientation, the Regular Route has an alpine quality not found on other popular Yosemite walls. Yosemite is the climbing destination for people from all over the world, and those people are the ones you’ll be climbing behind or awkwardly trying to pass on the long routes. The Salathé Wall is one of the original big wall climbing routes up El Capitan, a 3,000-foot (900 m) high granite monolith in Yosemite National Park. From the towering monoliths of El Capitan to the dramatic granite walls of Half Dome, these routes have become legendary in the climbing community. 9 and 5. However, don't expect to find the cracks Charlie Porter originally nailed as the rurp placements are now 1-1 1/4" scars. The climbing starts off wandering at a low angle and gradually grows steeper and gets better. Sep 2, 2023 · From below Yosemite’s Cascade Falls, you can barely see the 160-foot fissure splitting a steep granite wall west of the waterfall: The Phoenix, perhaps Yosemite’s best-known hard crack. 00 Add to cart FREE and BIGWALL PDF TRIFECTA – Three 500 Page PDF’s! 2 days ago · Nutcracker is a classic due to its interesting history, very easy approach, and five great pitches of perfect Yosemite granite. 6 moves are mixed in with long stretches of 3rd and 4th class circuitous climbing. Moved PermanentlyThe document has moved here. Plan your trip with care, respect the environment, and embrace the challenge. ” This season Martin was on big walls every chance she got — plus free climbing long routes. 10 or easier with a few aid climbing cruxes. This dramatic setting, combined with clean and exposed climbing, makes Snake Dike one of the most glorious moderate climbs on the May 25, 2024 · Explore the ultimate guide to climbing El Capitan with essential tips and insights into El Capitan routes. 5" x 22" Jun 27, 2024 · First things first, let’s talk about Yosemite’s climbing terrain. Nov 27, 2024 · Planning your first rock climbing trip to Yosemite Valley? Here are six must climb routes for the beginner Yosemite rock climber with tips for your first rock climbing experience in Yosemite National Park. This climb is well-protected until 15 feet of unprotected 5. Temperatures in the spring and fall The Nutcracker is a five pitch route loctaed on Manure Pile Buttress in Yosemite National Park, California. The climbing is surprisingly good and the line follows big striking corners linked by exposed traverses. Jan 28, 2022 · The majority of big wall routes (think 10+ pitches) in places like Yosemite and Zion National Parks are climbed using a combination of free and aid climbing techniques. 0-5. Rock Climbing Yosemite: Experience iconic routes, best seasons, gear, and safety tips for an unforgettable adventure in Yosemite National Park. Sentinel Rock: Located near the entrance to Yosemite Valley, Sentinel Rock offers a variety of climbing routes suitable for both beginners and experts. Half Dome boasts an unreal summit, 5,000' of rise from the Yosemite Valley floor and amazing views of the Yosemite and the High Sierra. The last seven pitches are spectacular. Jul 11, 2025 · The West Face is usually climbed as a free climb. [2] Everything you need to know about Big Wall climbing in Yosemite. The Yosemite Decimal System describes routes by Class (difficulty), Grade (length), and Protection (safety). Sep 21, 2006 · Find rock climbing routes, photos, and guides for every state, along with experiences and advice from fellow climbers. 99 Add to cart 2025 Rock Climbing Yosemite Valley PDF + Print Book (Preorder) – Aug delivery) $ 50. The protection is good for all crux section and the quality of the route is stellar. Yosemite offers a variety of climbing spots, each with its own unique charm and challenges. Jul 11, 2025 · Overview Mount Watkins is an adventurous off-the-beaten track wall with relatively moderate climbing. Popular for its climbing routes, it 1 day ago · Steep, clean and outrageously exposed, the Shield Headwall may be the most spectacular place on El Capitan. The Nose is the most popular route on El Cap, so prepare to wait in line for two days at the base. Apr 1, 2025 · For many, climbing in Yosemite represents the pinnacle of rock climbing, offering world-class routes that range from beginner-friendly slabs to the most difficult big-wall test pieces in existence. Provided by Touchpoints Yosemite's Best Big Wall Climbing Routes Thirty years after the “Golden Age,” Yosemite Valley remains a mecca to big wall climbers. Nutcracker is a good increase in challenge following After Six and After Seven. The Salathé Wall was named by Yvon Chouinard in honor of John Salathé, a pioneer of rock climbing in Yosemite. The Southeast Buttress route is a popular choice, featuring sustained climbing on excellent granite. Start early (alpine start!) to avoid crowds. If you plan to bolt a Oct 5, 2022 · Rock climbing in Yosemite isn't just for thrill seekers – it’s also a spectator sport. 4 days ago · Overview This is one of the more classic nailing routes in the valley, yet because of the long approach the route sees very little traffic. Modern big wall climbing began in the late 1950's and was developed into a fine art on its faces in the 1960's as climbers from all over the world have come to challenge its demanding routes. Jul 12, 2025 · In 1967 Robbins found a magnificent climb at Manure Pile Buttress to test his idea that nuts might be appropriate for Yosemite after all. With its sheer granite faces, the Rostrum Yosemite offers a wide variety of routes that challenge climbers of all skill levels, providing an unforgettable climbing experience surrounded by 5 days ago · The Muir Wall is one of El Cap's greatest natural lines, second only to the Salathé. Climbers here can enjoy an endless variety of challenges--from the sustained crack climbs of the Merced River Canyon to pinching crystals on sun-drenched Tuolumne Meadows domes to multi-day aid climbs on the big walls of the Valley. 7 to 5. While mostly low-angle 3rd and 4th class, the climb has a few exposed and well-protected 5. Jun 15, 2006 · Find rock climbing routes, photos, and guides for every state, along with experiences and advice from fellow climbers. While El Capitan climbing offers a wide range of big wall climbing routes, there is plenty to do for non-climbers as well. 5 days ago · SuperTopo rock climbing route info on: El Capitan - Freerider - Yosemite Valley, California USA. Initially, they used Yosemite as a test-bed subject for developing our early gigapixel imaging and terrain integration VFX techniques of large landscapes. On any given sunny day, if you’re passing El Cap meadows, you’re bound to see clusters of hikers and families spread out in the grass with their binoculars pointed up at El Capitan, trying to get a glimpse Later, both climbers went on to climb prolifically in Yosemite making many famous first big wall ascents, breaking many of the technical barriers in the sport, and establishing important ethical guidelines for climbers. In short, its damn hard to find a better large rocks to throw yourself at. Motorized power drills are prohibited. Though the aid climbing is much harder than the Nose or Lurking Fear, only 16 pitches mean that Zodiac is less of an ordeal. Routesinfo@yosemiteclimbing. 8, is one of the most popular and enjoyable routes on Manure Pile Buttress. 9 multi-pitch climbs. Such incredible moderate crack climbing is rare, which makes the route extremely popular. 10a), New Diversions Cliff. Jul 10, 2019 · El Capitan Gigapixel Climbing Routes Yosemite Valley has always held fascination for Eric Hanson of Blueplanet VR and Greg Downing of Hyperacuity. Out-of-date, but useful historical information. Jul 12, 2025 · Super Slide ascends mostly well-protected and sustained 5. Feb 6, 2018 · Find rock climbing routes, photos, and guides for every state, along with experiences and advice from fellow climbers. 10b traverse, is easily bypassed with a fixed pendulum. Feb 20, 2025 · An official form of the United States government. This route warms you up with two straight-forward pitches then blasts you with an intense and memorable crux. Apr 26, 2024 · Bolting Policy and New Routes The Rules Drilling protection bolts for climbing is permitted in Yosemite as long as it is done by hand. 4 sections. The Northeast Buttress is a memorable route characterized by steep, sustained, and physically demanding climbing that keeps building on difficulty. Jan 30, 2024 · El Capitan, located in Yosemite National Park, is renowned for its breathtaking rock climbing routes that have attracted climbers from all over the world. You can pull through all cruxes on gear except on the second pitch. This guidebook includes unprecedented route detail such as climbing strategy, retreat information, descent topos, pitch lengths, and gear recommendations for each pitch. Beyond this simple rule, there is a strong community bolting ethic in Yosemite. Jan 31, 2012 · Find rock climbing routes, photos, and guides for every state, along with experiences and advice from fellow climbers. Feb 20, 2025 · Yosemite is one of the world's greatest climbing areas. " Better than Astroman!? Well, we will let you argue that over a couple beers in Camp 4. Once considered impossible to climb, [1] El Capitan is now the standard for big wall climbing. Short, 5. Jan 16, 2015 · Find rock climbing routes, photos, and guides for every state, along with experiences and advice from fellow climbers. The route is mostly 5. 10 routes, climbs that will give you a sense of what it is like to move over thousands of feet of rock in a day. The climb follows a variety of well-defined, classic features linked by very few rivets. Mountaineering and rock climbing guide to the peaks of the Sierra Nevada, California written in 1954 by the Sierra Club. Overview El Capitan is perhaps the most sublime feature in all of Yosemite Valley, and second only to Half Dome among Yosemite's most recognized features. Jul 8, 2011 · Find rock climbing routes, photos, and guides for every state, along with experiences and advice from fellow climbers. Here's what I wish I knew beforehand. Feb 29, 2024 · 4. It has just a few short 5. Its unique location and breathtaking views attract climbers from all over the world. 2 days ago · This is the best 5. It rises over 3,000 feet above Yosemite Valley. 9 3-pitch climbs. Enjoy the El Capitan picnic area or trails and get carried away in Yosemite Valley. Feb 27, 2007 · Find rock climbing routes, photos, and guides for every state, along with experiences and advice from fellow climbers. Yosemite’s granite cliffs and peaks are a haven for rock climbers, and the park has played an undeniable role in the advancement and evolution of the sport. Freerider sits off to the left side of The Nose, El Cap’s premier buttress, and tops out at 3,300 feet/30 pitches above the valley floor. For beginners, it’s crucial to start with climbs that match your skill level. Rock Climbing Yosemite Valley - 750 Best Free Routes + 2020 Ebook + Salathe/Zodiac Route Poster El Capitan: Zodiac Route Poster 8. Dec 13, 2024 · I spent 40 days on Freerider (my first El Capitan route) before freeing it in a 16-hour push. 2 days ago · The route has little mandatory free climbing, but it is more enjoyable and goes faster if you can free 5. The temperatures are comfortable even in summer because the route ascends chimneys that provide shade Jun 22, 2006 · Find rock climbing routes, photos, and guides for every state, along with experiences and advice from fellow climbers. 4 multi-pitch routes in Yosemite. The reason is clear: there is no place on earth with the same combinations of size, rock quality, good weather and accessibility. Gain valuable insights into route selection, gear essentials, safety measures, and insider tips from seasoned climbers. 1 day ago · With more than 1600' of climbing, Royal Arches is the easiest long route in Yosemite Valley. The King of climbing destinations. You'll climb some of Yosemite's best 5. It marked the era of big wall climbing in Yosemite and is a true work of art; audacity and tenacity enabled the first ascentionists over a period of 47 days to invent and believe in this completely direct line up El Capitan. You just need to see this 2025 Ebook Rock Climbing Yosemite Valley – 750 Best Free Routes (Downloadable PDF) $ 19. In Free Solo, Alex Honnold’s ropeless ascent of El Capitan more than earns its acclaim from the sheer audacity of tackling such a long and difficult climbing route without any protection – never mind the amazing storytelling by climbing filmmakers Jimmy Chin and Elizabeth Chai El Capitan Free, Yosemite National Park, CA PUBLISHED IN 2012, FIRST EDITION • SIZE: 36" X 63" This giant climbing poster map has all of the routes on El Cap. Big 4 days ago · Snake Dike is the easiest technical climbing route to the top of Half Dome, the most recognized rock feature in the United States. The single, thin seam that runs the duration of the Headwall is unbelievable. This climb requires most parties a long day to complete. Rock climbing grades are a means of estimating the difficulty of a climb. Place one South Face of the Column on top of another one and you will get an idea of the Regular Northwest Face's length Climbing and Bouldering Rating Systems Even if you've yet to find yourself on a sheer rock face, you've probably heard someone talk about doing a "5-point-something" climb when describing a route they've attempted or mastered. Nov 1, 2024 · The Yosemite Decimal System (YDS) is a grading scale that evaluates the difficulty of hiking and climbing routes, especially for mountaineering and rock climbing. Mar 17, 2025 · Yosemite Valley is a world-class rock climbing destination, famed for its towering granite walls like El Capitan and Half Dome, offering legendary big-wall and trad routes. Doing a route in the middle of Half Dome's face is a much different experience than doing the Regular Route. The National Park Service does not inspect, maintain, or repair bolts and other climbing equipment anywhere in the park. For many, climbing in Yosemite represents the pinnacle of rock climbing, offering world-class routes that range from beginner-friendly slabs to the most difficult big-wall test pieces in existence. 1 day ago · This is one the best 5. Routes: Check out these popular Half Dome climbing routes: Snake Dike, Regular Northwest Face, Southwest Face, Blondike, Autobagn, Two Hoofers and more. Many areas in the world have developed different systems. In late July/early August, she also put up a new route on the Camp 4 Wall, which I previously reported on in “ Attacking Bees and a 50-Footer: Taylor Martin’s New Yosemite Route. Occasionally it is done "wall style" with the leader using some aid and the follower jumaring. This is a good introduction to 5. Apr 1, 2025 · The granite walls of Yosemite National Park have drawn climbers for generations, from the earliest ascents of Half Dome to the modern-day sub two hour ascents of El Capitan’s Nose. 10. It is the realization of my original vision of my artwork, both in size and content. The guide then takes you to long free climbing routes, to help you build the strong free climbing skills that are mandatory for an undertaking like the Nose. Access requires an extended bushwhack and two rappels; the route itself is equally hard to climb. 9 Rock climbing in Yosemite re-entered the spotlight recently with documentary movies like Free Solo and Dawn Wall. The climbing is only marginally more difficult than Zodiac, but the many lower angle 6 days ago · Many climbers call the North Face of The Rostrum "the best climb" in Yosemite. Either way, it is best done as a one day climb because of the tremendous effort to get wall loads to the base. 8 hand cracks. Jun 15, 2006 · Classic Climbing Routes at Yosemite Valley Mountain Project's determination of the classic, most popular, highest rated climbing routes in this area. Called simply El Cap or The Captain, this immense The Route For reasons not hard to comprehend, El Capitan – an incomprehensibly massive granite cliff in Yosemite Valley – is threaded with hundreds of world class routes. 6 in Yosemite. Below you will find our list of the 100 finest single and multi-pitch climbs in Yosemite Valley. Yosemite Sport Climbs and Top Ropes continues in that vain with clear photos, detailed topos and amusing historical perspectives on climbing in one of the most storied areas Jul 29, 2023 · The routes on El Capitan provide a physical challenge and an unforgettable experience anchored in climbing history. xmtqjl vvgggn hwb dkfym gxcke rew nwqls dnfm sxpqevql zlsywog