Rock Climbing in Yosemite National Park

Yosemite National Park is the most famous climbing area, not only in the United States but also in the world. In my opinion it is the best rock climbing in America.

The park consists of Yosemite Valley, Tuolumne Medows and some less visited climbing sites, such as Hetch Hetchy and Wawona, but visitors prefer to do their climbing activities in the Valley. The Valley offers anything from world-class bouldering to long free climbs.

 

Yosemite Valley, California, United States Photo Credit
Yosemite Valley, California, United States Photo Credit

Yosemite Valley receives climbers from all around the world. They are attracted by the park’s mild weather, perfect climbing conditions, beautiful scenery and the phenomenal granite walls well-suited for climbing.

 

On a rest day, you have the opportunity to hike one of the incredible trails, visit the astonishing waterfalls and just enjoy being at the biggest rock climbing point in the world.

One of the most difficult climbing routes for rock and free climbing is The Nose, at El Capitan. This 3,000-foot mountain was once considered very hard and even impossible to climb. Until 1993, nobody had successfully free climbed The Nose.

 

El Capitan Photo Credit
El Capitan Photo Credit

The first peak conquered was the Cathedral Peak in the 1800’s by the nature mystic John Muir. Most of the way around the peak is cliffy, but on the west side it transforms to steep slabs.

 

Cathedral Peak, Yosemite National Park Photo Credit
Cathedral Peak, Yosemite National Park Photo Credit

In the latter years of 19th century, word of the stunning Yosemite Valley was spreading across the country, and people from all over the place would come horse-back riding to see the astonishing view of these magnificent rocks.

Half Dome is another iconic peak of Yosemite. Rising nearly 5,000 feet above Yosemite Valley and 8,800 feet above sea level, Half Dome trail is waiting for the climbers from all around the world.

 

Good equipment is needed if you are planning to climb these rocks.

 

Half Dome Photo Credit
Half Dome Photo Credit

Good footwear is the best way to prevent problems such as injured ankles. Take boots with good ankle support and good traction. Many people find gloves very helpful on the cables. They protect your hands and make your climb easier and more enjoyable.

While hiking in Yosemite, make sure you pack out all trash because there is no trash service on the trails, and the place is so popular that it only takes a few people to leave a mess and it becomes a serious problem.

Hiking Half Dome can be very dangerous during a lightning storm, so be sure to check the weather forecast before you go there, you don’t want to be holding on to the cables that’s for sure.

 

Yosemite glacially polished granite Photo Credit
Yosemite glacially polished granite Photo Credit

Another big attraction of Yosemite National Park is the Vernal Falls. Best time to visit the Falls is spring where you can have a clear view of the Falls.

The Mist Trail is Yosemite’s signature hike. The Mist Trail has incredible views all along it, starting with the bridge overlook, continuing with two jaw-dropping waterfalls and ending with the most unforgettable views of all. The view of Nevada Fall, the Liberty Cap and the back of Half Dome.

 

Vernal Fall Photo Credit
Vernal Fall Photo Credit

Yosemite National Park is a mecca for climbers from all around the world. Awake the adventurer in yourself, get your climbing gear ready and enjoy some life-changing experience.

 

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stef-zisovska

stef-zisovska is one of the authors writing for Outdoor Revival