"B.A.T. Tent offers climbers a focused two-pitch trad challenge on the Portal Edge Wall, rewarding precise gear placements and dynamic movement across slab and thin cracks. Its clever approach bypasses roadside belays, immersing you in the raw granite of the eastern Sierra."
B.A.T. Tent offers a two-pitch trad experience perched on the Portal Edge Wall, a climbing gem within the Whitney Portal zone that challenges both body and mind across 150 feet of varied terrain. The route begins with a scramble up loose kitty litter terrain to a prominent tree, sparing you the uncomfortable option of belaying on the roadside. From here, climbers engage with a delicate arete featuring thin cracks and slab moves, threading their way past well-placed bolts and pins before merging onto the Portaledge route. This middle section demands precise footwork and attention, as the rock encourages confident smearing and finger lock techniques to maintain momentum.
The second pitch unfolds with a choice: the classic left-leaning crack or a slightly more exposed face climb moving up and right past a trio of bolts rated at 5.8 difficulty. Both options weave technical crack climbing with face holds, keeping the sequence dynamic while rewarding steadiness and route-reading skills. This pitch finishes at two bolted anchors that facilitate a confident rappel back to the initial tree using a single 60-meter rope, minimizing gear shuffles on the descent.
The protection on B.A.T. Tent spans from thin gear placements to cams up to 5 inches, meaning climbers should come fully prepared with a versatile rack that can address narrow cracks and more spacious fissures. The rock stays solid, but thin pro placements require a careful eye for secure placements and cautious weighting.
Portal Edge Wall itself sits on the eastern Sierra, offering crisp mountain air and open views framed by rugged peaks. The approach features a mix of loose rock and dirt gullies that demand care but deliver a quiet solitude away from busier routes nearby. Climbers venturing here will find that morning light warms the wall, while afternoons bring welcome shade on the steeper sections, making spring and fall the peak seasons for this climb.
B.A.T. Tent fits a niche for trad climbers seeking moderate difficulty with engaging movement, away from the crowds yet connected to the rich climbing history of the Lone Pine area. Prepare for variable conditions, be ready for fastidious pro placements, and enjoy the raw quality of the stone beneath your fingertips. This route embodies a practical adventure, blending physical challenge with the satisfaction of thoughtful gear placement and efficient movement on granite slab and cracks.
Watch out for loose rock on the approach scramble up kitty litter; move cautiously to avoid slips. On route, thin gear placements require extra vigilance, and the descent rappel demands a full 60-meter rope and clean anchor setup to ensure a safe return.
Avoid belaying on the road by scrambling up to the large tree for a safer and more comfortable stance.
Early morning starts are best to catch the sun warming the wall's slab before shade moves in.
Double-check placements on thin gear, especially on the first pitch slab where pro can be sparse.
A 60-meter rope allows a single rappel back to the base tree for a smooth descent.
Bring a comprehensive trad rack with placements from thin cams to sizes up to 5 inches. Bolts and pins protect some sections, but solid traditional gear is essential for the thin cracks.
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