Ivory Tower, Center offers a solid introduction to trad crack climbing within the sprawling beauty of Yosemite’s Tuolumne Meadows. This single-pitch route stretches 60 feet up a clean, vertical wall in Olmsted Canyon’s right section, where granite commands respect and focus. The climb opens with welcoming hand cracks that feel familiar and secure under your fingers, inviting you to settle into the rhythm of jamming gear and trusting placements. As you ascend, the crack narrows and shifts into a thinner hands section near the top—this is where the route flexes its muscles, pushing climbers to engage precise footwork and balance.

Surrounded by the soaring granite walls of Yosemite National Park, this climb pairs well with early-season outings or as a dependable warmup before hitting longer, more demanding routes nearby. The granite here is smooth but solid, rewarding clean gear placements from .5 to 3.5 Camalots, ensuring your rack feels balanced but sufficient. Expect the climb to test your crack technique without overwhelming; it’s a route that gently introduces challenges while allowing focus on movement and gear management.

Accessing the Wall is straightforward: Olmsted Canyon’s trailhead is a short drive from the heart of Tuolumne Meadows. The approach trail cuts through forest and open meadows, with a well-marked footpath that takes about 10–15 minutes to reach the base. The granite wall catches the early sun, warming up quickly but offering plenty of shade by midday to keep climbers comfortable on warmer days. Ideal climbing seasons stretch from late spring through early fall, steering clear of winter’s chill or summer’s peak heat.

With an average rating hovering around 5.10a, Ivory Tower holds a moderate challenge for those confident on hand and finger cracks, but newcomers will find the manageable length and solid protection an encouraging step into Yosemite’s crack climbing scene. The route’s solitary pitch keeps your focus sharp and the climb personal without turning into an endurance test.

Be sure to prepare with well-fitting climbing shoes suited for crack techniques and carry a rack emphasizing smaller cams, particularly in the .5 to 3.5 Camalot range. Hydration and layered clothing are advisable depending on the season and temperature swings common in the high country. Consider starting early to avoid afternoon crowds and benefit from softer granite temperatures.

Ivory Tower offers a slice of Yosemite’s legendary trad climbing with practical challenges and the natural grace of clean granite to explore your crack skills. Whether your goal is skill sharpening or adding another memorable pitch to your logbook, this route delivers a thoughtful balance of exposure, protection, and flow.