Assault and Battery offers a compact but engaging trad climb on the East Face of Donner Summit, a classic spot along the I-80 Corridor near Lake Tahoe, California. The route begins with thin, precise slab climbing, hugging three well-placed bolts that test your balance and commitment as you trace a line moving steadily up and left. These bolts, spaced deliberately to keep your focus sharp, serve as visual anchors against the broad, smooth rock surface, demanding both poise and careful footwork. Once past the bolts, the climb shifts into easier terrain protected by small to medium cams resting in natural rock features, letting you relax into the rhythm of the wall.

At just 70 feet and a single pitch, Assault and Battery packs an intense experience into a manageable length. The rock here wears the marks of frequent use, but remains solid and reliable. The slab’s slightly angled East-facing wall basks in morning light, making it ideal for early starts before the afternoon sun saturates higher elevations. Anchor setup is straightforward, with several large boulders providing secure top protection.

The approach is efficient, found within a short stroll from the parking zone off Donner Pass Road. The terrain leading up features weathered granite and patches of pine scrub, with distant views of the larger Sierra Nevada range reminding you just how much wilderness surrounds the corridor. This climb fits right into a day spent exploring the greater Donner Summit area – a place where mountain air sharpens your senses and the rock calls with quiet persistence.

It’s a route that speaks to climbers seeking gratifying slab moves without the prolonged exposure or complex gear rack needs of longer multi-pitch adventures. Still, the climbing demands precise placement and steady nerves, rewarding those who come equipped with appropriate footwear and light rack. Timing your ascent for cooler morning hours will enhance friction and reduce sweat-induced slips.

For climbers looking to explore the I-80 Corridor’s crags, Assault and Battery is a reliable introduction to bouldered anchors and slab technique that blends natural protection with bolt-assist. Expect a concise yet memorable experience, punctuated by the breeze whispering through pine tops and the steady pulse of a mountain day unfolding around you.