Yosemite National Park Guide: Climbing

Yosemite National Park Highlights

  • For advanced climbers, Snake Dike is the easiest technical climbing route to the top of the famous Half Dome. The summit of Half Dome rises 5,000 feet above the Yosemite Valley floor and provides amazing views of Yosemite and the High Sierra.
  • Astroman is one of the best, long free routes in the United States. At first, this climb was the domain of only the world's most talented climbers; it is still considered a major challenge.
  • The Regular Route of Fairview Dome is a dream for ambitious climbers. The route follows the longest steep line in Tuolumne and contains pitch after pitch of sustained and rewarding cracks.
  • Check out Candyland for a fun time bouldering. It's a little more isolated than most of the other climbing areas and provides a unique view of El Capitan.

By Travel Expert: Karen Kefauver

  • The Widow's Tears is a desirable climb. Its first ascent in 1975 was a landmark climb. Note that this ice formation does not form every year.
  • Silver Strand is another ice climbing option. It is visible from the Wawona overlook at the entrance of the tunnel and tends to be more consistent in forming.
  • Upper Sentinel Falls forms a relatively consistent approach. The complete Sentinel Falls has a crux which rarely forms and fell down immediately after the first ascent, something typical of Yosemite ice climbing.
  • Ice climbing is challenging in Yosemite, so it's a good idea to always check with local climbers and review current weather conditions. The valley is too low to maintain reliable conditions, so often climbs are only in good condition for a week.

By Travel Expert: Karen Kefauver


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