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C.S. Concerto: A Classic Yosemite Trad Climb on Manure Pile Buttress

Yosemite Village, California United States
trad crack
multi-pitch
north face
3-inch cams
Yosemite granite
walk-off descent
Length: 400 ft
Type: Trad
Stars
Pitches
4
Location
C.S. Concerto
Aspect
South Facing

Overview

"C.S. Concerto presents four pitches of classic 5.8 Yosemite granite climbing on Manure Pile Buttress. This trad route features continuous crack systems, quality protection to 3 inches, and an approachable walk-off descent, making it a solid choice for climbers seeking adventure away from the valley’s busiest walls."

C.S. Concerto: A Classic Yosemite Trad Climb on Manure Pile Buttress

C.S. Concerto offers a straightforward yet engaging trad climbing experience on the rugged Manure Pile Buttress, tucked along Yosemite Valley’s north side. This four-pitch route climbs approximately 400 feet of vertical granite that demands attention but welcomes climbers looking for a solid 5.8 adventure in a storied location. From the start, the climb pulls you into its rhythm: the first pitch follows a thin 3-inch crack that snakes upward, inviting careful gear placements up to 3 inches. Alternatively, climbers can begin on a nearby slab, 20 feet right of the main crack, offering a slightly different line that intersects seamlessly with the route’s second pitch.

The approach to the first belay is about 120 feet of steady crack climbing, rewarding you with a solid tree anchor resting on a comfy ledge. The second pitch progresses directly above this perch, continuing up a crack that undulates and widens amidst the granite’s subtle changes. This section culminates in a mantle move that deposits you atop a broad ledge, giving you room to rest and soak in the granite walls and the valley’s cool breeze. Around 100 feet in length, this pitch combines both technical moves and straightforward crack jams, challenging technique without punishing effort.

Pitch three is widely regarded as the highlight—climbers ascend a striking band of intrusive rock peppered with large features and intermittent crack lines. The climbing demands finesse, with some mild runouts adding a mental edge but nothing too serious for those comfortable at 5.8. At about 120 feet, this section carries you to a shallow bowl-shaped belay spot, perfect for regrouping and preparing for the last stretch.

The final pitch leaves the bowl, threading two easier cracks rated about 5.5 or less that rise 100 feet to a broad ledge perched above the main climb. From here, climbers have options: walk off left to descend or continue further up “After 6,” a mellow 5.3 scramble of 200 feet, to top out the entire Manure Pile Buttress for broader views and an extended Yosemite experience.

Gear to 3 inches is essential for safe anchoring and protection along this route. The natural cracks vary in width but stay well within standard trad rack sizes, making it accessible for well-equipped parties. Though the rock quality is generally solid, expect some sections with sparse protection where careful route-finding and confidence in gear placements pay off.

Reaching the base requires a short hike from the El Cap Picnic Area, navigating a terrain of mixed granite slabs and forest patches. The trail is well-marked and takes about 20 minutes, with GPS coordinates placing you precisely at the north side of Yosemite Valley. This approach invites you to enter a quieter section of the park, away from the most crowded climbs, offering a moment of relative solitude before you ascend.

The wall faces mostly north, lending some shade that makes climbing here pleasant in warmer months. Early spring and late fall offer the best window when crowds thin and temperatures are mild. Be mindful that afternoon sun can warm parts of the rock, making the mantle moves trickier if the granite is slick.

The descent involves either a walk-off to the left or a rappel, depending on your comfort and party plan. The walk-off is straightforward but involves some scrambling, so be prepared with proper footwear and daylight in hand. Safety is key—large ledges provide good spots to rest, but the granite can be unforgiving if you falter.

C.S. Concerto strikes a fine balance between challenge and enjoyment, perfect for trad climbers eager to experience a classic Yosemite line without the crowds of El Capitan. The route’s steady climbing, quality protection, and rewarding natural features make it a worthy addition to any itinerary exploring the valley’s north side granite playground.

Climber Safety

Watch for sparse protection on the third pitch; while generally solid, slow and careful placements are necessary. The walk-off descent requires attention on loose granite slabs, and afternoon heat can cause the mantle moves to be slippery.

Route Details

TypeTrad
Pitches4
Length400 feet

Local Tips

Start from El Cap Picnic Area and allow 20 minutes on a clear trail to the route base.

Bring a full rack up to 3-inch cams for reliable protection.

Climb in spring or fall to avoid intense heat and crowded routes.

Plan for a walk-off descent on the left ledges—scrambling shoes recommended.

Route Rating

Difficulty
5.8
Quality
Consensus:The 5.8 rating fits well with the consistent crack climbing and moderate technical sections, with the cruxes arising mostly from the mantle moves and flare variations. The grade feels fair and approachable for climbers comfortable placing and trusting gear in moderate runout zones.

Gear Requirements

Standard trad rack up to 3-inch cams covers all protection needs along this climb. Expect to place gear frequently, particularly on the first and third pitches, with solid crack systems offering safe placements throughout.

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Tags

trad crack
multi-pitch
north face
3-inch cams
Yosemite granite
walk-off descent