Carving a direct line through the Parkline Slab, Free For All offers an accessible yet engaging two-pitch climb that bridges the gap between sport convenience and the tactile thrill of traditional protection. Located along the Lower Merced River Canyon in Yosemite Valley, this route lays out roughly 200 feet of vertical granite that demands focus without overwhelming the climber. The first pitch starts boldly, taking a direct variation to the Center Route, threading its way past two well-placed bolts and finishing at chains secured to the rock. The granite here feels solid, but the approach challenges your attention as you carefully select micro nuts, small cams, and runners to supplement the fixed protection. The second pitch returns to the Center Route’s path but opts to ascend through the arching seam and corner, offering a shift in experience—balancing delicate face moves with cracks that invite gear placements typical of a classic Yosemite trad climb. While the pitch eventually converges again with the Center Route, the protection becomes more demanding, favoring mid-sized cams in the 3.5 to 4 Camalot range to safely navigate a more exposed alternative belay station beyond the established tree anchor.

Yosemite’s characteristic granite backdrop is on full display here. The park’s iconic valley face stretches with a light sheen of polish where passage is frequent, contrasting with the rougher, more textured holds in the crack system. The sun arcs overhead, often warming the slab and creating a dry, grippy surface essential during cooler months. Access is straightforward, and a single 70-meter rope will take you down efficiently with a rappel from the first pitch’s chains, or you can push for the top of the Center Route by continuing on pitch two and choosing your descent strategy wisely.

Free For All is ideal for climbers who want to sample Yosemite’s trad offerings with a hint of sport convenience, making it a solid choice for a midday climb or an early spring outing when weather conditions stabilize. Hydrate well before you start, pack layered clothing for temperature swings in the canyon, and slip into shoes with a sticky profile to handle the subtle friction variations the slab demands. Those approaching the second pitch should prepare for more sketchy pro placements and consider bringing a bit more gear to feel secure at the alternative belay.

Whether you’re a Yosemite visitor looking for a reliable, moderately graded line or a local shaking out the rust on your rack, Free For All delivers an accessible adventure with enough technical variety to hold your attention. It’s a climb that walks the fine line between challenge and enjoyment, reminding you why this park continues to inspire generation after generation of climbers.