"Goodrich Pinnacle's Right Side route offers an engaging blend of slab and crack climbing over eight pitches of Yosemite granite. This 5.9 trad climb tests balance and technique, rewarding with stunning valley views atop a bold granite pinnacle."
Rising sharply within the iconic Yosemite Valley, Goodrich Pinnacle commands attention with its steep, exfoliating granite face. The Right Side route carves a path along this feature, offering climbers a striking blend of slab maneuvering and crack climbing spread over eight distinct pitches. Beginning just above the Gob slab—a smooth granite platform positioned left of Monday Morning Slab—this climb challenges you to read the rock carefully as you ascend a series of ledges, cracks, and flakes. The approach leads you through forested sections where the valley's towering pines hush the world below, while the granite itself feels cool and tactile in your hands.
Your journey starts with a 5.5 slab move up from the Gob to reach a sandy belay ledge. This initial pitch acts as a warm-up on clean, sweeping granite, where balance and footwork take precedence over brute strength. From here, the route veers upward and right, threading through a dihedral before passing a prominent white flake at 5.7 difficulty. The rock here demands focus, as your hands register every nuance of texture while your feet establish trust on the seemingly smooth slab.
The climbing intensifies on pitch three, with a sustained 5.8 left-diagonal crack that tests finger jams and foot placements. When the crack peters out, you’ll find a delicate move up and slightly right to a small belay ledge—this transition keeps you alert and ready to adjust. The following pitches vary between moderate 5.7 faces and a carefully placed traverse that leads to a bolted anchor, a rare but welcome feature on this traditional route.
Near the summit, the crux emerges: a 5.9 move left from a bolt to approach the right-side chimney. This chimney climb is straightforward but requires efficiency in technique and body positioning. The chimney itself feels alive, urging you upward until you break out onto the pinnacle’s top, where sweeping views of Yosemite’s granite giants unfold. You’ll be rewarded with a moment to catch your breath while the valley stretches out in every direction below.
This climb suits those familiar with traditional rack placement and slab techniques, with protection mostly involving standard nuts, cams, and slings. The rock is generally sound, offering reliable hands and feet with occasional sandy pockets—be mindful of dust during dry periods. The route’s length and sustained nature make it a commitment, so plan for a full day with early start times to avoid afternoon heat and crowded conditions.
Ultimately, Goodrich Pinnacle’s Right Side draws adventurers seeking an authentic Yosemite experience—one where the rock’s character meets the wilderness atmosphere in an accessible but challenging package. Whether you’re a seasoned climber or stepping up to multi-pitch trad for the first time, this route rewards preparation, patience, and an eye for picking the best holds.
Watch for sandy ledges that can reduce friction underfoot and check rock condition on flakes and loose blocks before trusting them. The approach and descent can add fatigue, so stay hydrated and plan to rappel carefully from the summit anchors.
Start early to avoid the afternoon sun on the exposed slab sections.
Bring sticky-soled climbing shoes optimized for slab and crack climbing.
Carry extra tape for finger protection on the sustained crack pitch.
Keep an eye out for loose sand at belay ledges, and brush off holds when possible.
A standard traditional rack is essential for this route, including a full set of cams and nuts. Expect to place protection frequently, especially on slabby sections where placements require careful selection. A couple of fixed bolts ease the final pitches, but rely primarily on gear for safety.
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