Follow the River stands as a crisp introduction to the sport climbing routes of Emigrant Wall, set within the rugged wilderness accessed via Silver Lake and the Carson Pass Highway. This single-pitch climb stretches 140 feet and offers a clean line peppered with 12 bolts, culminating in a shared anchor with the first pitch of the multi-pitch explorer favorite, The Pass. The route’s hallmark is a striking six-inch dike that invites climbers to engage with a slab that’s both accessible and technically rewarding—ideal for those easing into slab climbing or warming up on rock that demands focus and balance without overwhelming power moves. Traversing this face places you in direct conversation with the granite: solid, textured, and uncompromising, yet perfectly formed to reward precision footwork and steady progress.

The approach to Follow the River is straightforward but set against a backdrop that immediately signals the high Sierra’s rugged spirit. From Silver Lake, the trail climbs gently, weaving through a crisp forest where fir and pine filter the sunlight, setting a cool tone before you reach the base. The remoteness here is palpable; this is a quiet stretch of the Emigrant Wall where the crack of each placement and the clink of hardware break the forest’s silence. Once on route, climbers can expect well-spaced bolts that prompt mental engagement with each move, emphasizing balance over brute strength.

A unique advantage of Follow the River is its flexibility: the route functions well on its own or as a strategic starting point for longer ascents including The Pass or Three Springs. From one anchor, multiple climbing experiences unfold. The existing quick-links at anchors make rappelling clean and reliable, allowing climbers to retreat or extend their day without fuss. For those introducing newcomers to slab climbing, the option to top rope from the shared ledge using a 70m rope opens a safe and manageable introduction without fully committing to the upper pitches.

Protection on this sport route is solid—12 bolts placed thoughtfully to offer security without crowding holds. However, awareness is key, especially around the dike feature, where foot placements must be deliberate and body positioning refined. This segment stands out for its enjoyable, subtle challenge and distinct granite texture, making it a highlight of the Emigrant Wall.

Because the route faces mostly east, mornings bring engaging shade before the sun gently warms the rock—ideal for spring through early fall climbing. Descending is straightforward: a rappel from the shared anchor leads you back down to the ledge at the start of The Pass, a simple but critical detail to prepare for while packing gear.

For any climber visiting Emigrant Wall, Follow the River provides a blend of scenic solitude, technical slab climbing, and versatile beta that suits a range of skill levels. It’s a practical choice for warming up, honing slab skills, or sampling this portion of the Sierra’s granite walls with a solid, moderate challenge.