Captain Hook Right offers climbers a focused, technical pitch on the storied walls of El Capitan’s Southwest Base. This single-pitch trad climb stands out with its two demanding bulges—each demanding a precise mix of lieback and undercling techniques that test finger strength and body positioning. Unlike its companion line to the left, the right side route challenges with a mossy start that can catch you off guard, setting a gritty tone from the moment you reach the first hold. Midway up, you’ll face the nuisance of a scrappy bush protruding from the rock, adding an unexpected natural obstacle that complicates an already physical ascent. While this climb is shorter, at about 60 feet, it packs concentrated difficulty into every move, making it a worthy task for those who want to sharpen their crack and face climbing skills.

Approaching from the Southwest Base means threading your way through the well-known valley terrain of Yosemite National Park. The route is part of the larger El Capitan North Valley side, giving climbers a taste of the immense granite face’s varied character. Protecting this route requires traditional gear placements up to 2 inches, with solid opportunities to secure cams amid the feature sets of the bulges—though be prepared for placements that demand careful judgment to ensure safety. The rock conditions invite focused attention: moss challenges your grip early, while the sharpness of holds on the bulges demands both careful footwork and strong core engagement.

Timing a climb here benefits from mid-morning to early afternoon light, as the face catches sun that generally warms the holds and dries out morning moisture. Seasonal conditions in Yosemite mean spring and fall offer the best balance of temperature and lower crowd levels, though dry summer days can allow for straightforward approaches and confident climbs. Speaking of the approach, it’s a brief but rooted walk from the main trail, with clear landmarks available for the descent—either a rappel or a carefully managed scramble to descend safely.

The route’s rating of 5.9 reflects the technical nature and the physical bulges that pack a punch in effort, making it feel slightly stiffer than standard climbs of similar grade. The bothersome bush mid-pitch is a reminder of how nature shapes the challenge here, contributing a unique test of route reading and body control. Compared to Captain Hook Left, the right route offers a tougher, more confrontational experience that appeals to climbers who enjoy precise crack skills paired with awkward but rewarding moves. Expect a steep learning curve that refines lieback technique and reinforces mental focus on gear placement and movement quality.

Whether you’re refreshing your crack climbing or working through the nuances of El Capitan’s less traveled lines, Captain Hook Right delivers a packed pitch that rewards attention and persistence. Prepare to engage fully with the rock, respect the natural quirks of the route, and take away lessons that extend beyond the single pitch to your broader climbs in Yosemite and beyond.