The
Steck-Salathe route on Sentinel Rock in Yosemite is one of the Fifty Classic Climbs of North America. Its reputation for being long, wide, and physical is well deserved—but so is its reputation for quality. The climbing, the exposure, and the overall sense of adventure make this route truly unforgettable.
The only wide gear you need for this route is a single #4 and a single #5. To protect the Narrows, you would need something like a #8, but you are more worried about even being able to move than falling in there, so protection is unnecessary.
I first climbed
Steck-Salathe in
2007 with Ross Peritoine. Ross led every pitch of the 1,600-foot route, and although we topped out before dark, it was definitely night by the time we got back to the car. Since I hadn’t led a single pitch that first time, I’d always wanted to return to swing leads—and to put together a better overlay and trip report for this Yosemite classic.
In 2025, I made two Valley trips, in June and October. With its shady aspect and long daylight hours, June seemed ideal for another go—but I couldn’t find a partner. (I’ll admit I’m a bit picky—this is a long, burly adventure, not a casual day out for anyone who just thinks they can “cruise 10b.”) When I came back in October, I renewed my search, posting on Mountain Project and bugging Nate. With shorter days and cold shade, the route’s Type 2 fun factor was definitely higher. Luckily, Brooke Schuemann responded with interest, and we made plans.
I ended up leading the entire route while Brooke followed with a small pack carrying our extra water, food, layers, headlamps, and shoes—a fair trade, in my opinion! I loved leading the full burly adventure, though I think I set a personal record for longest lead in the Narrows. I felt seriously claustrophobic in there and struggled to keep moving upward, but we made steady progress and topped out just before sunset. The descent was tedious and entirely in the dark, but we found a good line and reached the car just under four hours after leaving the summit.
With warm fall temps and calm winds, it was a perfect day to be on The Sentinel. Only one other party was on the route—they were simulclimbing and passed us early on.
What a great adventure. I definitely earned a rest day (especially with rain in the forecast and an interview on Wednesday). Thanks, Brooke—it was super fun climbing with you. Let’s plan another!
This page includes an overlay, time stats, and pitch-by-pitch photos and video—enjoy!
