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Yosemite Valley is recognized as one of the most popular climbing areas in the United States, and is heavily responsible for the development of climbing as a sport. Of the many sites to boulder in Yosemite, Camp 4 (where we camped) is probably the most popular, as it has the highest concentration of problems in a given area. If you aren’t familiar with “bouldering,” the sport is different from traditional rocking climbing as it involves quick “problem solving” climbs consisting of dynamic / technical moves and involves little equipment. Traditional rock climbing on the other hand, is somewhat the opposite, where the climber will often use ropes and harness(es) etc, and a longer “endurance-based” climb.

Being only a beginner at climbing, and especially outdoor climbing, Yosemite was my first time “outdoor bouldering” outside of Hawaii. I have to admit, I was pretty anxious to get on granite for the first time as well.

We met a handful of other climbers at Campsite 4, and two of them (Austin and Christian) suggested that we try out the Ahwahnee Central Boulder site, as there were more problems within our (Luke and I) skill range there. Although I was anxious to get on the granite at Campsite 4, I was warned that many of the problems / holds there can be discouraging for beginners… and thus, we ended up meeting our new climbing friends just down the road from camp.

Once there, Austin and Christian warmed up on this V2 problem (Ahwahnee Arete?)… (Christian above).

…which was slightly high-ballish; e.g., a problem considerably higher than 15 feet (Austin above). I ended up warming up on problems that were more VB/V0-ish; there’s one just to the right of the problem Christian and Austin were doing.

Next was a V0 arete problem about 50 yards away. Austin quickly flashed (completed in one attempt) the problem, as I tried to take mental notes when I wasn’t blinking. haha.

I ended up flashing this one also, but far slower…

…and in the absolute absence of technical grace when compared to Austin’s assault prior.

Christian had a personal vendetta with this V4 highball problem, so I decided to stitch together a sequence photo of him successfully topping out. Project completed, awesome job Christian!

Austin also had his own V7 project called, “Silly Roof,” which in my opinion was more like, “Preposterous Roof.”

…I believe this remains his project until present. As talented as both Austin and Christian were, the “silly boulder” won today. Excellent job to both of you regardless.

I also jumped on a couple more problems (i.e., No Fur and an unnamed traverse above), but didn’t have time to complete anything unfortunately…

At least I went home with a nice flapper, which means I get an “A” for “effort,” lol.

Bouldering at Yosemite was a great experience, but I really wish I could have spent more time there and had time to climb at Campsite 4. In addition the unlimited bouldering problems and rock climbing routes in the valley, there are enumerate hikes and scenic points to capitalize on. There are also several other excellent campgrounds, which may require reserving permits / reservations far in advance. You may also have the privilege of obtaining a “Wilderness Pass,” that will allow you to do remote / back-country backpacking and camp in areas where far fewer people have explored. If you decide to pursue this activity, there are several precautions you MUST take in addition to typical knowledge about backpacking. The Visitor Center or Wilderness Center can provide you with information about such precautions, but you should research the dangers / logistics of exploring the back-country far in advance to your trip.

So in summary… PLAN, PLAN, PLAN so that you can make sure to take advantage of what little time you spend here on your vacation. If you have any questions, just ask! 😉

Keep in mind this is a 5-part series, which includes, camping, 2 waterfalls hikes, night photography, and bouldering while in Yosemite (see links at top of page). To view more posts on climbing CLICK HERE, or look at the “Climbing Photo Gallery”. To view this location on a Google Map also known as my “Adventure Map“, Click Here. For more mainland and off-island adventures, Click Here!!!. Thanks for stopping by!!!