If you find yourself wandering the North Side of Yosemite Valley, seeking a climb that stretches beyond the usual yet doesn't demand the flawless precision of the area's celebrated classics, the Center Route on Geek Towers offers a grounded challenge. This moderate route sits a bit to the right of Freestone, acting as a reliable alternative for days when fatigue eases your ambition or nerves edge high as you stand beneath the towers’ looming rock face. The approach itself is a climb, with a low angle scramble that already sets the tone — easy but attentive — allowing you to gain height gently before the more technical pitches unfold.

The rock on this route is generally commendable. Expect solid, grippy granite that feels golden in the sun, though you’ll need to navigate some pockets of sparse vegetation and occasional loose stones. This isn’t a polished showstopper, but it is a genuine slice of Yosemite climbing rooted in real terrain. Your initial pitch — a near 60-meter ascent — follows a right-facing corner with ample hand and foot holds, passing a bolt from Freestone on the way as a reassuring landmark. The belay perches just beneath a left-facing corner, giving a stable spot to regroup.

From here, the climbing shifts through a sequence of corners and chimneys edged with subtle complexity. Pitch two veers up a somewhat vegetated but cleared left corner, delivering an awkward 5.9 challenge packed with technical moves and a bolted belay anchoring your progress. The transition from chimney to open face on pitch three is a blend of bouldery and exposed climbing, weaving through shadowed cracks and requiring steady footwork to handle the trickier portions at the upper section.

Pitch four stands out as the keystone of the climb. A deliberate traverse left leads into the centerpiece offwidth, graded 5.10a, demanding both strength and finesse. Full splits, stemming, and careful sequencing define this pitch — it’s a strenuous workout. Don't rush your protection placements here; large cams, particularly #4 and #5 sizes, will keep you secure. This pitch rewards solid technique and consumes mental focus, with a cozy alcove belay awaiting you under a small roof that offers brief respite.

What follows is a split final segment, usually approached as a single pitch, broken into two for rope management. Ascending up the chimney, you must stay alert to unstable chockstones and negotiate a tricky tree near the top. The climbing eases somewhat here, rated around 5.8, but the aesthetic and physical test of the chimney leaves a lasting impression. Comparisons to other regional classic offwidths put this pitch in a fair place — challenging but approachable if you respect the grade’s demands.

Gear up with a full rack of standard doubles from 0.3 to 3 inches, plus larger cams like #4 and #5 to tackle the offwidth safely. While these placements can be unconventional, the quality rock makes protection placement predictable and reliable once you know where to look. The route’s accessibility from a large platform near the base, just right of Upper Yosemite Falls, keeps the approach straightforward yet engaging — plan for about 15 to 20 minutes to reach the start, navigating easy class 3 terrain that rewards cautious steps with views opening across the valley.

Midday, the route catches ample light on its granite face, though the offwidth remains cool in shadows — a helpful contrast during warmer months. Spring through fall offers the best window for climbing here, avoiding winter's chill and unpredictable wetness. Descending requires care, as rubble and trees near the summit call for deliberate downclimbing and possibly short rappels to reach the ground safely. Prepare accordingly, packing water and sturdy footwear to manage the loose rock and mixed terrain.

Ultimately, Center Route on Geek Towers is a climb that balances Yosemite’s signature granite quality with a moderate, honest test of climbing skills. It’s a trustworthy choice when you want to escape the crowds, move through varied cracks and chimneys, and enjoy a route that challenges without overwhelming. Whether you’re stepping up from beginner multi-pitch routes or simply in need of a slightly softer alternative to favorites like Freestone, this route provides solid footing for your personal adventure in the Valley’s north flank.