Tioga Pass and Highway 120 East opened on June 29th, restoring access to Tuolumne and Yosemite’s high country! Climbers are flocking up in droves, excited to pull on knobs, jam alpine cracks, and squeak up glacially polished Tuolumne slabs.
Tenaya Peak
Cathedral Peak
Snow
There is still a lot of snow present in the Tuolumne area. Snow fields are present at the base of many popular climbing areas in Tuolumne. Expect many routes to be wet. Tenaya Peak has three snowfields that affect continuous passage up the popular NW Buttress.
The standard descent from Cathedral Peak is a steep snow and ice field that may require rappels to traverse. Never expect rappel stations to exist. Always be prepared to build rappel stations yourself. Carry the necessary webbing or cordalette.
We have much to celebrate with high snow accumulation from the winter. However, this means that conditions in the high country will be much different than in previous years.
Water crossings are particularly hazardous this year. Respect the power of water and ensure that you follow proper safety precautions while traveling in the alpine wilderness.
Peregrine Closure
The Fairview Dome peregrine closure remains in effect. All climbing between and including Lucky Streaks and Heart of Stone is closed until further notice. Please respect the closure and help these amazing birds continue to flourish.
Climber Coffee
Climber Coffee will move to Tuolumne, 9am Sunday July 16th. Find us at the Lembert Dome parking area until the store reopens for the season and we return to our traditional location near the grill.
Enjoy the high country. Have fun! Be safe!
Tuolumne looks beautiful under all that snow! Heading that way soon!