"Connect Secor to Moynier offers a focused 70-foot climb that balances technical moves and approachable terrain, nestled within California’s June Lake area. Its raw rock and quiet setting make it ideal for climbers seeking a sharp but unhurried 5.8 challenge."
Connect Secor to Moynier offers an unpolished but rewarding 70-foot climb that threads through the rugged essence of Sierra Eastside’s June Lake Area. From the left edge of Secor’s main top platform, climbers face a sequence of varied terrain—starting with a narrow ledge barely eight inches deep and two feet wide. A bolt overhead marks the next challenge: a brief, steep wall that tests precise footwork and steady balance. Beyond this crux, the route eases onto a gentle slope before heading up another short wall that requires thoughtful movement rather than brute force. Traversing this, you approach a tight overhang to the right, framed by a lone bush or small tree perched on a broad ledge, before reaching the bolt anchors that mark the top of the pitch.
The climb is sparse but engaging, offering bursts of technical moves rather than a continuous struggle. The rock demands respect—many sections are still loose and prone to breakage, a reminder that this sector remains lightly trafficked and in many ways raw. For safety, it’s crucial for belayers and other climbers to maintain distance from the base, aware that falling debris can come without warning.
Protection is carefully placed with five bolts leading to dual anchors: a lower anchor beneath the platform’s bush useful for top-roping or lowering off, and an upper anchor positioned left of that bush on an adjacent wall—intended for climbing transitions to higher pitches. These anchors feature stainless steel hardware installed in 2018, built to handle Sierra’s demanding conditions. While this route itself is a single pitch, its close connection to Moynier’s sector allows for extended climbs and diverse adventure options.
Approaching Connect Secor to Moynier demands attention to access and preparedness. The approach routes require traversing to Moynier’s mid-level ledge, then moving right along a tree trunk to reach the bush staging the anchors. Alternative entries, such as climbing Left Ridge or Left Slab in Secor, further expand possibilities depending on skill and ambition.
This climb caters to those who appreciate a hands-on experience with minimal crowding, where every move is deliberate and the terrain keeps you alert. Footwear with solid grip and steady edging capability will pay dividends on the narrow ledges and transitions. Because of the delicate rock quality, helmet use is strongly advised.
The location, facing generally east with afternoon shade rolling in, invites morning ascents in cooler conditions, especially during late spring and early summer when the high elevations are accessible yet not overwhelmed by heat. The surrounding Sierra landscape offers a calm backdrop: pine smells from nearby forests mingle with the crisp mountain air, while distant peaks stand guard beyond the valley floor.
Descending means careful planning—rappelling from the upper anchor is possible, but many opt for a safe walk-off depending on link-ups chosen. Whatever your choice, give extra thought to route-finding in this relatively quiet, evolving climbing zone.
Connect Secor to Moynier embodies the spirit of exploration—a climb that openly invites respect for the rock and your own calculated steps. It may not boast polished holds or flashy exposure, but its understated challenges and smooth transitions make it a solid addition to any Sierra climber’s portfolio.
Be mindful of loose and breakable rock across the route, especially under climbing areas. Belayers need to maintain distance as rockfall risk is elevated. Wear a helmet at all times and avoid crowding the route’s base during ascents.
Always wear a helmet due to loose rock potential.
Approach via Moynier's mid-level ledge, then traverse right along the tree trunk.
Morning climbs offer cooler temperatures and firmer grips.
Keep belayers and bystanders well clear of the base to avoid falling debris.
Five bolts secure the line, leading to two polished 2018 stainless steel anchors—one positioned below the leafy bush for top-rope or lowers, and one just above and left for higher pitch continuation or rappelling. Gear placements between bolts require attention due to mostly fixed hardware but remain minimal.
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