Haley's Comet presents a sharp, engaging climb that traces the leftmost arête of the Manure Pile Buttress, carving a distinct line above Yosemite Valley’s lush northern rim. This single-pitch challenge stretches 65 feet of technical face climbing punctuated by four well-placed bolts, demanding both precision and respect. The granite here feels solid beneath your fingers, but the spacing of protection injects an element of thoughtful risk into every move. The route rewards confident smearing and subtle edges as you ascend toward the shared two-bolt anchor with the adjacent Jump for Joy climb.

The approach to Haley’s Comet is straightforward yet carries the quiet demand of Yosemite wilderness. From the El Cap Picnic Area, a short trek leads you to the base, where the rock catches the early sun and whispers of the valley below fill the air. Tree branches brush gently against the buttress, carrying the scent of pine and worn stone. This climb is not a run-of-the-mill sport route; with only four bolts securing the 65-foot line, it sits in a gray zone—sport in appearance but true trad mindsets required. A fall before the second bolt risks serious consequences, so route-finders must be steady and prepared.

For those uneasy about leading, an alternate approach offers a scramble through a 4th class gully to the left, delivering an accessible way to reach the anchors. From there, a single rope rappel deposits you cleanly back down, with one more rappel securing the descent to the base. This flexibility makes Haley's Comet approachable for climbers confident with moderate exposure and willing to manage their own safety.

Protection consists solely of the four bolts and the two-bolt anchor, so a solid head for clipping and a reliable rack aren't optional—they’re essential. The granite's texture demands shoes with sticky rubber and precise footwork. Timing your climb for morning or late afternoon ensures the rock isn’t cooking under the mid-day sun, keeping grip sharp and hands comfortable.

Despite its modest length, Haley’s Comet impresses as an intense, compact climb that appeals to trad climbers seeking a short, sharp burst of Yosemite's vertical character without scaling El Capitan’s massive walls. It’s a climb that invites you to test your nerves, hone your technique, and savor the valley’s quieter climbing edges. Whether you’re weaving your way carefully up the bolts or choosing the scramble for a safer approach, the route offers a clear statement: mastery here is about control, focus, and respect for the exposed line stretching skyward.