HomeClimbingIvory Tower, Left

Ivory Tower, Left - Offwidth Adventure in Olmsted Canyon

Lee Vining, California United States
offwidth
granite
trad protection
single pitch
Olmsted Canyon
Yosemite
Length: 60 ft
Type: Trad
Stars
Pitches
1
Location
Ivory Tower, Left
Aspect
South Facing

Overview

"Ivory Tower, Left invites climbers to test their offwidth technique on a single 60-foot pitch of solid granite in Yosemite’s Olmsted Canyon. This approachable climb blends accessible challenge with reliable protection, making it a worthwhile stop amid the alpine scenery."

Ivory Tower, Left - Offwidth Adventure in Olmsted Canyon

Ivory Tower, Left offers climbers a straightforward yet engaging offwidth experience tucked along the rugged faces of Olmsted Canyon in Yosemite National Park. This single-pitch climb stretches about 60 feet, inviting you to master the distinct movements that offwidth climbing demands without overwhelming strain. The crack itself runs wide enough to encourage hand jams, fist jams, and those unique body-thrashing moments that offwidth enthusiasts crave. The climb demands genuine technique: it’s not merely about brute force but timing, rhythm, and patience as you ascend.

Located within the vastness of Tuolumne Meadows, the rock here is solid granite, providing reliable friction beneath your fingers and feet. As you step onto the wall, imagine the ancient stone stretching upward, catching the afternoon sunlight and warming your skin. The approach is relatively tame for Yosemite standards, allowing you to focus your energy on climbing rather than hiking. Once on the route, the crack pushes upward, occasionally narrowing and expanding, encouraging you to adapt your moves quickly.

Protection on Ivory Tower, Left predominately favors medium-sized cams; a range from #2 to #4 Camalots will cover most of the placements. For those who dislike the uncomfortable runouts that sometimes accompany wider cracks, a #6 Camalot can be pried up the first 20 feet to boost your safety without compromising movement. This blend of protection options suits climbers who want a solid, well-protected line but also intend to challenge their comfort zone.

The setting itself enhances the experience. Olmsted Canyon’s walls rise steeply from the forest floor, surrounded by towering pines and the crisp mountain air that clarifies your breath and sharpens your senses. The climb's exposure is moderate—enough to feel a connection with the environment without provoking unease. This trait makes Ivory Tower, Left appealing to climbers stepping into offwidth for the first time or those looking to sharpen their technique where the climbing is straightforward but rewarding.

Timing your climb here is key. Afternoon light bathes the face, warming the rock and drying early morning dew. Early summer to early fall provides optimal conditions, balancing sun exposure and cool mountain air. Be mindful that Yosemite’s weather can shift swiftly, so packing layers and hydration for this alpine environment is essential.

After topping out, descending is a short hike back through well-marked trails that guide you safely from the canyon’s base. This ease of access and exit rounds out the experience, making Ivory Tower, Left a gem for climbers keen to spend their day honing offline skills on a clean, friendly trad line within one of the world’s most iconic national parks.

Climber Safety

The crack widens enough that some protection spots can be tricky; relying on a #6 Camalot low on the pitch greatly improves security. Watch for loose rock near the base and avoid climbing when the wall is wet or icy.

Route Details

TypeTrad
Pitches1
Length60 feet

Local Tips

Start climbing mid-morning to enjoy sun-warmed rock without overheating.

Practice offwidth hand and fist jams on easier routes before attempting this climb.

Place protection frequently to minimize the feeling of runouts in the wide crack sections.

Hydrate well and bring layered clothing as alpine weather shifts quickly, especially in the afternoon.

Route Rating

Difficulty
5.8
Quality
Consensus:Rated 5.8, this climb is straightforward for those familiar with offwidth techniques but will test newcomers who tend to rely on finger strength alone. The rating feels fair with a consistent challenge throughout the line, without unexpected cruxes. Compared to other Yosemite offwidths, Ivory Tower, Left offers a manageable introduction with less physical strain and a lower suffer factor.

Gear Requirements

Bring a full set of medium-sized cams, from #2 to #4 Camalots. A #6 Camalot is recommended for the initial 20 feet for added protection and safety against runouts.

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Tags

offwidth
granite
trad protection
single pitch
Olmsted Canyon
Yosemite