HomeClimbingGreen Eggs and Ham

Green Eggs and Ham: A Classic Yosemite Trad Climb

Lee Vining, California United States
right-leaning corner
sparse protection
single pitch
granite
runout
summer climbing
Length: ft
Type: Trad, TR
Stars
Pitches
1
Location
Green Eggs and Ham
Aspect
South Facing

Overview

"Green Eggs and Ham challenges trad climbers with its slick right-leaning corner on Yosemite’s Western Front, blending technical moves and sparse protection. This single-pitch delivers an intimate taste of Tuolumne Meadows’ high granite walls, perfect for focused ascents."

Green Eggs and Ham: A Classic Yosemite Trad Climb

Set against the towering cliffs of the Western Front in the iconic Yosemite National Park, Green Eggs and Ham offers a compact yet memorable climbing experience tailored for trad enthusiasts who crave technical precision alongside scenic grandeur. This short, single-pitch route sits in the Daff Area within Tuolumne Meadows—an alpine zone known for its clear air and granite walls that echo with decades of climbing history. The climb begins in a clean, right-leaning corner hugging the left edge of the Western Front, inviting careful footwork and steady hands as you ascend. The granite here feels raw but reliable, offering subtle texture that encourages balance over brute force.

From the base, the path guides you smoothly up the corner until it tapers near a lone bolt, signaling the transition point where the route angles more directly right towards the summit. This move introduces a slight psychological kicker, demanding attentive gear placements amid the sparse fixed protection. The route's "5.9 R" rating warns climbers to respect runout sections where careful planning and trusted pro placements are essential. Despite this, the climb remains very accessible for confident trad climbers comfortable with moderate risk and eager to engage with Yosemite’s classic granite features.

For those setting out, the approach is straightforward: a gentle trek through the Tuolumne Meadows terrain leads to the Western Front cliffs, with ample daylight filtering through pine groves, carrying the crisp mountain scent and distant bird calls. Once at the base, protection needs are simple but demanding—small cams are your primary lifeline, supplemented by quickdraws for clipping the solitary bolt. This setup emphasizes precision placements, rewarding climbers who master gear selection and placement technique. After topping out, you can opt for a controlled 80-foot rappel or descend rightwards via a walk-off trail, both routes offering safe exit options but requiring attention to route-finding and rope management.

Timing your climb here is crucial. Summers provide stable weather and dry granite, ideal for solid friction and clear line of sight over the belay. Early mornings or late afternoons bring cooler temperatures and softer light, enhancing grip and comfort but also calling for layered clothing due to alpine chills. Hydration and footwear need to be carefully prepared: durable but nimble shoes complement the granite’s texture, and carrying enough water will support sustained focus and stamina.

Overall, Green Eggs and Ham is a tribute to Yosemite-style trad climbing—short, bold, and beautifully set in one of America’s most storied wilderness areas. It invites climbers to engage with the rock’s personality, balancing technical challenge with manageable risk and panoramic natural beauty.

Climber Safety

Runout sections demand careful gear placements; avoid soloing and double-check placements before committing. The rappel requires clean rope management on granite edges to avoid rope damage.

Route Details

TypeTrad, TR
Pitches1
Length feet

Local Tips

Approach via Tuolumne Meadows trailhead; moderate 20-minute hike through mixed forest terrain.

Check weather forecasts for dry conditions to ensure granite friction and safety.

Pack layered clothing; alpine mornings and evenings can be chilly.

Carry at least 2 liters of water to stay hydrated due to altitude and exertion.

Route Rating

Difficulty
5.9 R
Quality
Consensus:The 5.9 R rating reflects a climb with moderate technical moves but notable runout sections that introduce protection challenges. While the climbing moves themselves feel approachable for climbers familiar with Yosemite granite, the sparse gear placements require confidence and mental composure, echoing classic Yosemite trad ethics.

Gear Requirements

Small cams are essential due to limited natural protection; carry quickdraws for clipping the single bolt. Precise placements will keep you secure on runout spots.

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Tags

right-leaning corner
sparse protection
single pitch
granite
runout
summer climbing