Brownoser stands as a relatively fresh addition to Yosemite Valley’s climbing scene, offering a gritty and demanding trad route for those ready to step beyond well-worn paths. Located on the quieter southern stretch of the valley, this 110-foot pitch takes climbers up a left-leaning finger crack, framed by textured face holds that challenge both technique and mental focus.

Approaching Brownoser means preparing for a dirtier climb compared to Yosemite’s polished classics. The rock bears the marks of recent creation and minimal traffic, giving the route a raw quality that only dedicated climbers can appreciate. This isn’t a climb for beginners; the holds require confident hand jams and solid crack skills, and the cleanliness will improve with time but remains a factor now. Expect to encounter patches of dust and small debris that test your foot placements and patience.

Protection is a key part of the challenge here. The crack demands a range of cams from .3 up to #3, with duplicates in the 2 and 3 sizes to secure tricky placements. If you carry a #4 cam, it’s worth taking along for the final section offering bomber protection. The gear not only assures safety but also encourages thoughtful route-finding and placement, rewarding those who approach it with care.

Though a single pitch, Brownoser is packed with character—its left-facing corner crack beckons for sustained focus and steady movement. The surrounding valley air brings a cool breeze that occasionally carries the distant rush of Yosemite’s waterfalls, creating a backdrop that invigorates without overshadowing the climb’s quiet intensity. Climbers can expect a mix of jamming, stemming, and precise face moves that test versatility.

Due to its current condition, this route promises much more once cleaned, making it an appealing project climb for climbers eager to pioneer Yosemite’s newer lines. Its setting, just south of the main valley floor, offers a quieter atmosphere that contrasts Yosemite’s often crowded walls, giving a sense of solitude and immersion in the granite environment.

Planning a Brownoser climb means bringing a solid rack, prepared for occasional loose rock and dirt, and allocating extra time for gear placements. Wearing sturdy climbing shoes with good edging ability helps compensate for rougher textures and less friction. Timing is best during spring to fall when the rock is dry and temperatures moderate, avoiding winter’s chill and damp conditions.

In sum, Brownoser is an invitation to experienced trad climbers seeking to engage with Yosemite’s evolving vertical landscape in a way that’s as demanding as it is rewarding. It’s an unpolished gem that challenges not only your skill but also your patience and respect for a route still finding its rhythm in one of the world’s most iconic climbing regions.