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Cheetos and Everclear: A Classic Yosemite Sport Route

Lee Vining, California United States
balancy
granite dike
finger crack
shaded belay
Yosemite sport
Length: 180 ft
Type: Sport
Stars
Pitches
1
Location
Cheetos and Everclear
Aspect
South Facing

Overview

"A crisp, 180-foot sport route on Dozier Dome that blends juggy dike moves with thin, balancy face climbing. Ideal for intermediate climbers looking to hone precision and enjoy stunning alpine views."

Cheetos and Everclear: A Classic Yosemite Sport Route

Cheetos and Everclear presents a concentrated burst of Yosemite's distinctive granite character, delivering 180 feet of engaging sport climbing that blends straightforward dike moves with delicate face climbing. The route launches off a prominent white dike, inviting climbers into a sequence of comfortable, enjoyable jugs bolted every few feet, perfect for warming up your fingers and settling into the rhythm of the rock. After four bolts, the line shifts right, leading to a series of thin, balance-dependent moves along a clean face where precision and footwork reward every step. The climbing here is straightforward but demands a steady focus on technique and body positioning, making it approachable for intermediate climbers moving into the 5.10 range.

Belaying options add thoughtful flexibility to the experience. You can choose to anchor at the top, shaded and cool, ideal for a mid-day rest or lowering safely. Alternatively, a belay perched around 130 feet from the terrace offers panoramic views of Tuolumne's alpine meadow and distant peaks, a rewarding scene that reminds you why Yosemite remains a coveted climbing destination. Protection is well spaced but reliable, with nine draws standard, and for those who prefer extra security, an optional hand-sized piece combined with a long sling can cover the easier 5th-class crack that offers a touch more peace of mind.

Approach access is straightforward, following clear paths through Tuolumne Meadows to Dozier Dome. The climb suits a midday session when the face emerges from early shadows but before the afternoon sun grows too intense. Light winds typical at this elevation keep temperatures moderate even in summer, but bringing adequate water and layering is advised to handle the alpine conditions.

For climbers eyeing this route, solid sport experience paired with confident footwork will unlock the rhythm that keeps moves smooth and efficient. The route’s sustained nature fits nicely in a day of cragging in Yosemite's high country, offering both a technical challenge and a chance to soak in the vast, open landscape. With straightforward protection, moderate length, and a balanced mix of climbing styles, Cheetos and Everclear makes a memorable addition to any Tuolumne climbing itinerary.

Climber Safety

The crack section near the top can present tricky placements; using a hand-sized piece with a long sling helps mitigate rope drag and keeps your gear secure. Pay attention to weather conditions as sudden temperature drops in the high country can make holds slick.

Route Details

TypeSport
Pitches1
Length180 feet

Local Tips

Start climbing mid-morning to avoid the cold shadows lingering on the face.

Carry plenty of water despite the short approach; alpine air can dry you faster than expected.

A long sling is handy to reduce rope drag in the off-width crack section.

Belay at the shaded top for comfort or near the terrace to take in the expansive Tuolumne views.

Route Rating

Difficulty
5.10a
Quality
Consensus:Rated 5.10a, the route feels true to grade with a touch of finesse required on the thin face section. Moves are not overly strenuous but demand careful foot placement and balance, making it a great test for climbers sharpening their technique. Unlike the more powerful Yosemite routes nearby, Cheetos and Everclear leans on precision rather than brute strength.

Gear Requirements

Bring 9 quickdraws for the bolts, plus an optional hand-sized piece and a long sling to protect the easier 5th-class crack section. The top anchors include rappel rings for safe descent.

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Tags

balancy
granite dike
finger crack
shaded belay
Yosemite sport