Yosemite El Capitan
Question
Mr. Vargen,
I have been climbing several times in the valley and have never topped out on El Capitan, I was looking at doing the West Face which is 5.12 or 5.8 A1, I cannot find any beta on it except for one place and it was not telling me if it is a really nice route or scary like the DNB, I was wondering if you had any info on it?
My partner would have no trouble freeing the route, myself on the other hand would not be able to. I know route finding has alot to do with it especially on this route, that is why I am looking for beta.
Lurking Fear is our other option but I am not so stoked on that one.
Thank you,
Johnny
Answer
Johnny,
You can find a topo of the route in Yosemite Free Climbs and possibly Yosemite Big Walls, guide books. The West face goes primarily free these days with many parties doing it in a day.
Lurking Fear is definitely more popular amongst less experienced aid climbers. LF can get crowded as all valley routes do at times.
For Beta I would recommend Chris MacNamara's website at www.supertopo.com you if you cannot get any beta here, email Chris or post a message on the forum. You will get more than you need I'm sure.
Good Luck.
Jeff Vargen
leading
Climbing shoes