Yosemite is one of the world’s greatest climbing areas, where climbs often involve hikes taking several hours, followed by scrambling approaches that are best achieved when the days are the longest.
Cathedral Peak (Southeast Buttress, 5.6)
Cathedral Peak is one of the most striking granite summits in Yosemite. Located in the Tuolumne Meadows area, a good portion of the route is a steep hike and scramble on dirt and rock slabs. The relative ease of climbing and approach make Cathedral Peak one of the most popular routes in the Park. So be ready for lots of fellow climbers—the popularity is well deserved as those who ascend to the summit block are rewarded with breathtaking views.
The Southeast Buttress, a sweeping curtain of fine granite, is the classic rock climbing route and also extremely popular. It’s interesting to note that the three-mile approach to SE Buttress is part of the John Muir Mountaineers Route. Muir ascended Cathedral Peak in 1869 without a rope, helmet, or climbing shoes; however, all are recommended for today’s trad climbers.
Takeaways: Despite the crowds and approach, Cathedral Peak SE Buttress is considered the most beautiful peak in the Yosemite Valley so it’s totally worth adding to your climbing bucket list.
Matthes Crest (South to North, 5.7)
Matthes Crest, located in Yosemite’s Tuolumne Meadows area, gets much fewer climbers than its famous neighbor Cathedral Peak. The wandering mile-long ridge traverse is a full-day experience with epic views from an exposed line. Expect some logistical challenges along this narrow granite fin; Matthes Crest is not for the faint of heart. The uniqueness of this solid granite ascent offers a variety of interesting moves and unforgettable rock structures that are sustained for more than a thousand feet of climbing.
The estimated approach time comes in at 2 to 3 hours and the time to climb the route anywhere from 3 to 6 hours, depending on your chosen route and experience. Generally, trad climbers traverse Matthes Crest from North to South because the crest slopes upwards and to avoid additional downclimbing.
Takeaways: Matthes Crest is a mile-long fin of rock for the technical climber experienced in rope climbing skills and traditional protection. This route offers epic views and experiences that will last a lifetime.
Mt. Conness (West Ridge, 5.6)
The West Ridge of Mt. Conness is located on the eastern boundary of Yosemite National Park and is a popular alpine route offering a mix of technical climbing, route-finding challenges, and potentially snow or ice. This giant piece of granite calls to the alpine climber’s heart with its breathtaking views as one of the most prominent peaks in the Park. The two popular approaches are from Sawmill Campground and Lower Young Lakes. Either way, allow 2 to 4 hours of hiking to get to the west ridge of Mt. Conness.
Reaching the peak is a combination of hiking and climbing up to 12,500 feet, where you’ll be in awe of the expansive 360-degree summit views of Yosemite Valley, the Sixty Lakes Basin, the Ritter Range, and the Sawtooths.
Takeaways: Climbers are exhilarated by wild exposure, spectacular views, and positions the entire way to the top. That said, weather conditions can change rapidly on this massive peak.
Make Room for Your Next Adventure with Storquest
Organize your outdoor gear and equipment in the perfect storage unit at StorQuest while planning your next epic outdoor climbing destination. From locker-sized spaces and popular 5x10 spaces to our larger units and RV parking at locations across the country, we have the space you need.