Grease Monkey offers a focused introduction to classic crack climbing within Yosemite’s Olmsted Canyon, a quiet pocket of the Tuolumne Meadows region known for its granite purity and thoughtful lines. This single-pitch trad route, stretching 85 feet, winds up a right-leaning hand and fist crack that tests steady technique and sound gear placement. Beginning low in a narrower crack that opens as you ascend, the climb demands transitioning smoothly from the lower section into a wider upper crack about 10 feet up, where the rock reveals more hand-sized jamming opportunities. Protection placements remain reassuring throughout most of the climb, with solid pro opportunities that give confidence even through the route’s crux—a subtly tricky 5.9 move just below the final ledge where the crack thins and demands precise body positioning.

The granite’s texture provides excellent friction, amplifying tactile feedback as each jam pulls you upward. Above the crux, the ledge acts as a comfortable halfway point offering a chance to pause and assess the final moves. The escape involves traversing left along the ledge to a lone tree, marking an easy walk-off that keeps descent efficient and safe. Gear-wise, a standard rack with a focus on 3 to 4 inch pieces is essential, plus a few smaller cams sized between 3/4 and 1 inch to properly anchor at the back of the upper ledge. Dirt accumulation means you may need to clear some rock dust to reveal the crack fully for reliable placements.

This climb fits well into a day exploring Olmsted Canyon’s collection of solid trad lines, providing moderate difficulty with a practical exposure level that welcomes climbers looking to sharpen crack climbing skills in a scenic and relatively quiet setting. Early morning to midday attempts benefit from south-facing sun warming the granite without baking it, while afternoon shade arrives promptly, cooling the rock.

Approaching Grease Monkey follows a short, well-trodden trail from the Olmsted Campground that cuts through forested ground, where the sounds of a nearby stream energize the air and nearby pine trees stand watch. It's a brief hike with light elevation change, making it accessible whether you’re packing light or scouting multiple climbs nearby.

Safety attention is needed on the final pitch section near the ledge, where protection thins and the tougher moves require both commitment and a well-planned sequence. Fall potential here is moderated but not trivial, so proper placement confidence and sticking the jam sequences are key. Expect the granite to present occasional sharp edges, so finger care and thoughtful movement preservation pay dividends.

For climbers looking to combine a manageable challenge with the timeless experience of Yosemite’s granite crack routes, Grease Monkey delivers a concise but engaging adventure. Its blend of crack sizes, reliable protection (save for the top few feet), and straightforward descent make it a satisfying single-pitch destination, especially when paired with other classics in the Olmsted Canyon area.