Yosemite climbing. Climbing Half Dome will take you dizzying heights with its sheer face and reward you with unparalleled views you’ll remember for a lifetime. As the only authorized climbing guides in the park, our expert team takes you to the top. Permits for climbers are available by self-registration, are free, and there are no quotas or limits on the number of permits available. 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. In short, its damn hard to find a better large rocks to throw yourself at. This dramatic setting, combined with clean and exposed climbing, makes Snake Dike one of the most glorious moderate climbs on the His love for Yosemite motivated him to establish the Yosemite Climbing Association in 2003. 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. 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. 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 The nearest showers are located at Half Dome/Curry Village, accessible via the Yosemite bus system, biking, walking (a bit of a walk), or driving. 10b traverse, is easily bypassed with a fixed pendulum. Alex Honnold, one of the world’s most daring climbers, has his sights set on free climbing The Nose on El Capitan in Yosemite National Park, California. Here’s how it works. ) Here are some tips for first-time Yosemite climbers courtesy of veteran Lasting Adventures guide and Yosemite climbing fanatic, Matt Schilowitz, that will help you navigate the granite and its community during your entry-level rock climbing experience in Yosemite. Feb 9, 2024 · Going climbing in Yosemite but not sure where to start? Leave nothing to chance with our detailed destination guide so you don't miss out. Admire classic climbing May 21, 2019 · Yosemite A place forever intertwined with the history of rock climbing, and has remained relevant in the climbing universe after many decades. S. Sep 10, 2024 · Visitors who plan to enter Yosemite National Park between 6 am and 2 pm every day through August 15 or Labor Day weekend (August 30–September 1) are likely to need a peak-hours reservation. For nearly two centuries, from the days of scrambling peaks in the Sierra to the cutting edge free climbing on El Capitan, the cliffs of Yosemite National Park have set the standards for climbing. Many climbers come from all over the world just to experience this incredible area for themselves. Discover Yosemite with professional guides who offer expertise in hiking, climbing, and natural history, ensuring a safe & enriching adventure. May 25, 2024 · Explore the ultimate guide to climbing El Capitan with essential tips and insights into El Capitan routes. Below you will find our list of the 100 finest single and multi-pitch climbs in Yosemite Valley. In Mariposa California, the museum displays historical climbing artifacts, as well as photography, publications, and memorabilia: collectively, the climbing community's art. Rock climbing grades are a means of estimating the difficulty of a climb. Through Yosemite’s Climbing Stewardship program, the park works to protect climbing areas and climbers alike, by using education, restoration, and research to promote environmental stewardship, safety, and strong relationships with the climbing community. Support the project by bidding on the amazing items in our Online Auction Fundraiser. Developed in the 1950s in Yosemite National Park, this system was created by rock climbers to standardize ratings for various routes. Short, 5. This new formalized partnership is built upon a strong foundation of working together for decades—including on projects like the Yosemite Big Wall Permitting Program, Climber Oct 15, 2024 · A wilderness climbing permit is required for all overnight big wall climbs. Come join us for the ribbon cutting ceremony from 12-1 PM, then stay to explore. Here’s where to go rock climbing in Yosemite National Park, which has granite domes and formations for beginning, intermediate, and advanced climbers, including the epic El Capitan. Start early (alpine start!) to avoid crowds. First ascents on the Yosemite Falls Wall date back to 1947, with John Salathé and Anton “Axe” Nelson’s ascent of the Lost Arrow Chimney, then considered “the most demanding climb yet in the brief history of Yosemite climbing. begins and ends with Yosemite National Park. Through rock-fall and epics, The Valley constantly reminds us that it will remain untamed Jul 29, 2024 · The father of a 20-year-old woman who fell to her death on Yosemite's Half Dome is speaking out. Stop by the new Yosemite Climbing Association Gallery and Museum to be regaled with stories of boldness and bravery high up on Yosemite’s famous cliffs. Yosemite Climbing Association This week, we interviewed Kate Kelleghan to learn more about the video she’s co-producing with climbing partner Laura Pineau on their ascent of the Yosemite Triple Crown—Mt. Org. Wild Yosemite offers guided private and group tours, photography workshops, hiking and snowshoeing, multi-day backpacking, and rock climbing for individuals and groups exploring Yosemite National Park and surrounding wilderness. The Yosemite Climbing Association has developed the following community values, and ethics based on a renewed vision of the Clean Climbing Manifesto advocated by Yvon Chouinard and his colleagues in 1972. Meet our guides. 3 days ago · The murder mystery set in Yosemite National Park is now streaming on Netflix. Gain valuable insights into route selection, gear essentials, safety measures, and insider tips from seasoned climbers. Welcome to the Yosemite Conservancy climbing hub! Here you'll find everything you need to know about climbing in the park — from information about overnight permits to safety videos to tips from experts. It is not the only rating system used by climbers, but it is the one preferred by most of the people who use Climber. Here's what you need to know. Sep 21, 2006 · Find rock climbing routes, photos, and guides for every state, along with experiences and advice from fellow climbers. Packed full of useful tips from climbers in the know and with clear and accurate topos, it is the free climber’s Rand McNally to the vertical world. Dec 6, 2023 · Looking to conquer Yosemite's top climbing routes? Discover the exhilarating challenges and breathtaking views that await you on these famous granite walls. 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. Jun 15, 2006 · Find rock climbing routes, photos, and guides for every state, along with experiences and advice from fellow climbers. Few Climb the Great Mountains of Yosemite Yosemite is a rock-climber’s paradise for granite and big wall climbing. The Climbing Stewardship program started as a grassroots volunteer effort in 2012. Sep 13, 2022 · Does the park service currently have a drafted plan for climbing permits in Yosemite? No, the park service and climbing rangers are currently engaged in active conversation with the public to formulate a long-term plan for big wall permits in Yosemite. If you need proof, just look at the grading system we use. Under this umbrella, he has collected decades' worth of climbing gear and history and advocated for the establishment of the Yosemite Climbing Museum. Jul 18, 2023 · Famous Yosemite Climbers The narrative of rock climbing in the U. Dec 13, 2018 · Free solo climber Alex Honnold prepares to achieve his lifelong dream: scaling Yosemite's 3,200-foot El Capitan without a rope. This climb marked several firsts: it was the first time bolts were placed in 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. Overview Cathedral Peak is an outstanding granite pinnacle in the Tuolumne Meadows area of Yosemite National Park. The SE . The YDS scale divides routes into classes based on the physical effort, technical skill, and risk Everything you need to know about Big Wall climbing in Yosemite. A pin-scarred corner leads to a biceps-blasting undercling traverse, then a sustained, fingers and thin The hike up to Half Dome, towering over the Yosemite Valley at 8846 feet, is one of the great bucket list hikes. Dive into five of our favorite Yosemite rock climbing spots. Warren Harding topping out on the […] 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. The Yosemite Decimal System is a set of numeric ratings describing the difficulty of climbs. The permit system helps climbing rangers better understand use patterns on big walls. Our climbing experiences are offered on the pristine granite of the Sierra Nevada on a 600′ high dome near Yosemite's stunning cliffs are world-famous for rock climbing. 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. Access requires an extended bushwhack and two rappels; the route itself is equally hard to climb. org | (209) 742-1000 Museum Address: 5180 CA-140, Mariposa, CA 95338 | Mailing Address: PO Box 2006, Mariposa, CA 95338 Oct 30, 2017 · Yosemite's Climber Stewards are just that - climbers and stewards! To learn more about these talented volunteers who dedicate their time to the vertical environment, we checked in with Chris, a member of the 2017 steward crew. ” - Duane Raleigh, Rock & Ice Magazine “SuperTopo offers a clear and concise format and sets Mar 14, 2019 · The Yosemite Climbing Museum is undergoing a transformation. Hosted by the Yosemite Climbing Association (YCA) in partnership with the National Park Service, this five-day event invites people from all walks of life—climbers, park lovers, families, locals, and visitors—to help care for Yosemite after its busiest Since 1969, Yosemite Mountaineering School & Guide Service has been the ultimate destination for adventure seekers in Yosemite National Park. Learn about rock climbing or try it yourself. May 23, 2025 · The Half Dome hike is the most epic trail in California’s Yosemite National Park, with a thrilling cables section to climb to the summit! Curious about climbing, but not ready to rope up? This weekend, expert rock-climber Doug Robinson is leading a one-day Outdoor Adventure to bring you inside the climbing experience — without leaving the ground! Read on for a sneak peek in the climbers' world. Learn about climbing and bouldering ratings, including how route difficulty is measured and the difference between a rating and a grade. Yosemite Facelift is the largest annual volunteer clean-up event in any national park. Climbers here can enjoy a variety of vertical challenges. Oct 5, 2022 · Rock climbing in Yosemite isn't just for thrill seekers – it’s also a spectator sport. Yosemite National Park is a mecca for rock climbers, as it offers some of the most challenging climbing surfaces in the world. Through Yosemite’s Climbing Stewardship program, the park works to protect climbing areas and climbers alike by using education, restoration, and research to promote environmental stewardship, safety, and strong relationships with the climbing community. Everything about the sport in this country is rooted in the historic deeds of world-class climbers who, over the years, have traced lines all over Yosemite Oct 19, 2024 · AAC x Yosemite National Park On August 2, 2023, the American Alpine Club entered into a General Agreement with the Yosemite National Park Service with the goal of supporting and promoting climbing in Yosemite Valley. Yosemite's Best Big Wall Climbing Routes Thirty years after the “Golden Age,” Yosemite Valley remains a mecca to big wall climbers. Go Climb a Rock! Since 1969, Yosemite Mountaineering School & Guide Service has been the trusted leader in climbing Yosemite's iconic granite walls. Explore climbing gear from the first-ascents of El Capitan and other Yosemite big walls. Thank you so so much for your continued support of Yosemite Facelift and the Yosemite Climbing Association! We couldn’t do this without you and we look forward to celebrating together in September. Watkins, El Cap, and Half Dome in fewer than 24 hours. Feb 29, 2024 · Yosemite is home to some of the most incredible climbing in the world. Yosemite Climbing Association’s Twentieth Annual Facelift was a huge success! This year the YCA is pleased to share that through our efforts and coordinations with our partners at Yosemite Conservancy and Yosemite Hospitality we succeeded our goal of becoming the first Zero Landfill event in Yosemite National Park with a total of 91. 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 Jun 13, 2025 · Yosemite National Park, located in central California’s Sierra Nevada Mountains, is a global icon for rock climbing, renowned for its towering granite walls, diverse routes, and rich climbing history. By understanding the terrain, having the right gear, learning essential techniques, preparing both physically and mentally, and taking care of your body post-climb, you’re setting yourself up for success. ” The ascent took five and a half days, according to the American Alpine Journal. The reason is clear: there is no place on earth with the same combinations of size, rock quality, good weather and accessibility. Oct 7, 2014 · World renowned for its immense glacial polished granite, Yosemite is the mecca for rock climbers. Gear up for an unforgettable climbing experience in one of the world's most iconic outdoor destinations. More Oct 24, 2024 · The two buddies from Utah surpassed the times of famed American climbers on the massive link-up inside Yosemite National Park. Big Apr 1, 2025 · A guide shares everything you need to know about how, when, and where to go rock climbing in Yosemite National Park. Jun 15, 2006 · Yosemite National Park is it: The iconic birthplace of American rock climbing and the most famous climbing area in the world. The pilot will help climbing rangers better understand use patterns on big walls. Share the story of vertical wilderness through ranger-led visitor programs about climbing history and techniques, geology, and environmental stewardship. 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. 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. It also facilitates Gym to Crag education to foster responsible climbing practices, Leave No Trace, and preserve Yosemite's iconic climbing routes for future generations. Nov 20, 2024 · When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. Feb 27, 2007 · Find rock climbing routes, photos, and guides for every state, along with experiences and advice from fellow climbers. The park, located in central California, is home to both Yosemite Valley (THE Valley), Tuolumne Meadows, and several other less-visited climbing venues such as Wawona and Hetch Hetchy. In Yosemite Valley, the most popular spots are the Merced River Canyon, Sentinel Rock, El Capitan and Cathedral Spi Yosemite Climbing Association This week, we interviewed Kate Kelleghan to learn more about the video she’s co-producing with climbing partner Laura Pineau on their ascent of the Yosemite Triple Crown—Mt. When eastern Yosemite Valley is closed due to flooding, self-registration climbing permits are available at Arch Rock Entrance for climbs in western Yosemite Valley (El Capitan, Leaning Tower, Gold Wall, Cathedrals (and obscurities). The climbing varies from 3rd class walking on Apr 18, 2023 · Analyzing the causes of five accidents in Yosemite to understand how they could have been prevented. Apr 8, 2025 · This week, we speak with Sonnie Trotter—Yosemite big-wall free climber from Canmore, Alberta—about his upcoming book, Uplifted: The Evolution of a Climbing Life, The Yosemite Climbing Museum chronicles the evolution of modern day rock climbing from 1869 to the present. Reviewers and Yosemite Climbing Experts praise: “ Yosemite Valley Free Climbs is the definitive topo guide to the world’s greatest rock routes. If you weren’t aware, it’s called the Yosemite Decimal System. Apr 26, 2024 · The Reasons Yosemite’s wilderness permit system attempts to achieve two goals: limit the number of people in the Yosemite Wilderness to ensure a great wilderness experience, and educate wilderness users how to minimize their impacts while in the wilderness. Routesinfo@yosemiteclimbing. g. 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. 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. Some element of adventure always seemed to be missing from my Yosemite climbs on the Valley's perfect sunny granite. From […] Mar 8, 2025 · From the remote and rocky crowns of the Yosemite backcountry to Yosemite Valley’s legendary massifs such as Half Dome and El Capitan, here is a who’s who of Yosemite mountain peaks and how to visit them. While access, culture, and the valley floor are completely different when compared to the days of the Stonemasters, the source of inspiration remains the same. Jan 31, 2012 · Find rock climbing routes, photos, and guides for every state, along with experiences and advice from fellow climbers. Whether you’re a beginner seeking accessible climbs or a seasoned big wall climber aiming for legendary ascents, Yosemite offers an unparalleled climbing experience. Honnold, star of the Oscar-winning 2018 climbing film Free Solo has spent the last few weeks attempting to Aug 17, 2023 · One of the best places in the world to experience climbing is Yosemite National Park. The Yosemite Climbing Association protects its legacy through stewardship, education, and community. 12% Through Yosemite’s Climbing Stewardship program, the park works to protect climbing areas and climbers, alike, by using education, restoration and research to promote environmental stewardship, safety and strong relationships with the climbing community. It is an outlet for the energies of the world’s most passionate and adventurous people. 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. Visit Yosemite Mountaineering School & Guide Service today and choose from half-day, full-day, multiple-day and customized climbing sessions. Within a few years the rush was on to climb in Yosemite. Since the late 1960s, the Yosemite Mountaineering School & Guide Service has been guiding in Yosemite and have helped thousands of visitors learn to climb. Learn how the pioneers of Yosemite’s vertical terrain invented some of the legendary gear to make those ascents possible. The term “impossible climb” would never again be used as easily. From indoor climbing walls, to the real deal… Here are our picks for Yosemite rock climbing tours, facilities, and general climbing information. Yosemite inspires the souls of climbers and non-climbers to reach for something beyond themselves and to travel to a place, physical and mental, where they have never been before. Given the exceptional natural beauty of the surrounding meadows, lakes, and forest Jun 15, 2006 · Find rock climbing routes, photos, and guides for every state, along with experiences and advice from fellow climbers. There is a bus stop across the street and supplies and food, including a cafeteria, can be purchased at the nearby Yosemite Valley Lodge. Other history In 1960, Royal Robbins, Tom Frost, Chuck Pratt, and Joe Fitchen made the second ascent of the Nose. With unparalleled knowledge, they cater to all skill levels, from beginners to seasoned climbers, and every guide is a certified Wilderness First Responder or has a Yosemite Rock Climbing Info Yosemite is much more than a valley with 3000-foot rock walls and incredible climbing. 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. 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. Learn more. May 2, 2016 · What questions do you have about climbing El Capitan? As big wall adventurers take advantage of long spring days to scale Yosemite's famous 3,000-foot granite cliff, we're sharing some of the top questions from the park's Ask a Climber program, which kicks off its 2016 season this month. 10a), New Diversions Cliff. 14 big wall route is Special thanks to Yosemite National Park for their assistance and collaboration, and for protecting and preserving special places like El Cap. Jun 1, 2016 · The most pivotal climbing moments in Yosemite’s storied history, from some of climbing’s most celebrated athletes and voices 2 days ago · The triumph shook both the climbing and non-climbing worlds and would change big wall climbing forever. The only hard section, a 5. , proper disposal of waste) and The Yosemite Climbing Association (YCA) is a 501 (c) (3) nonprofit organization dedicated to preserving Yosemite’s rich climbing history, fostering a strong community of stewardship, and advocating for sustainable climbing practices. It will also increase compliance with existing regulations (e. Dec 9, 2024 · Alex Honnold’s latest climbing project has taken him back to Yosemite National Park. Learn how to climb Yosemite's iconic rock formations, such as Half Dome and El Capitan, with the help of experienced guides and instructors. 1 day ago · With more than 1600' of climbing, Royal Arches is the easiest long route in Yosemite Valley. Apr 21, 2025 · To protect these species, the superintendent of Yosemite National Park designates peregrine and golden eagle nesting cliffs as areas closed to visitor use, including climbing and slack-lining activities, from March 1 and lasting until chicks have fledged and dispersed from those areas each year. It looks good from all sides, has expansive views from its class 4 summit block, and the SE Buttress is considered a classic climbing route. Through education, conservation, and advocacy, we ensure that Yosemite remains a world-class climbing destination for generations to come. There have been many documentaries made about the amazing climbs that have taken place in Yosemite, capturing the beautiful scenery and thrilling adventures. (Link available in blog. The Park is a world-class destination as Yosemite boasts huge granite slabs up to 3000' (33-34 pitches including traverses). Our new layout and exhibits will be revealed at our Grand Re-Opening, April 26th. 6 moves are mixed in with long stretches of 3rd and 4th class circuitous climbing. With expert, certified guides and a passion for adventure, they ensure your climb is as secure as it is thrilling. Mar 17, 2025 · We talked to Yosemite Search and Rescue to find out how DOGE layoffs have impacted the Yosemite climbing community. That said, Royal Arches is committing and has benighted more than a few climbers. Moved PermanentlyThe document has moved here. 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. Get all you need to know for an epic ascent. Yosemite shaped climbing as we know it— and it needs us more than ever. Yosemite National Park is known for its towering granite domes, thundering waterfalls, and – of course – it’s world famous rock climbing! If you’re new to the vertical world of rock climbing, then a guided Yosemite rock climbing trip may be exactly what you’re interested in. Feb 20, 2025 · Yosemite is one of the world's greatest climbing areas. 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. The iconic 5. According to the San Francisco Chronicle, he was on personal time, climbing a popular granite wall when he fell to his death and was found by search-and-rescue teams the next day. This guide explores the Jun 27, 2024 · Climbing in Yosemite is an exhilarating experience, especially for beginners. It's impossible to miss the size of the walls when you drive into the park. Find out the best time, routes and equipment for rock climbing in Yosemite National Park. John Muir made the first ascent of Cathedral Peak in 1869, possibly the first class 4 climb to be made anywhere in the Sierra. 2 days ago · An 18-year-old park employee, Grant Jeffrey Cline, fell to his death while climbing the Royal Arches route in Yosemite Valley. Many areas in the world have developed different systems. 1. qri fxzxc vvveyph iyhh orkl yagph gjptpx iaivy kckgac lbunw