"Joe Mamba offers a compact yet spirited 65-foot sport climb at Tuolumne's Circle A Wall. Its short but steep headwall near the top challenges climbers to execute precise moves, making it ideal for those eager to experience Yosemite’s granite in a focused, manageable pitch."
Joe Mamba presents an engaging introduction to sport climbing on the granite faces of Circle A Wall, located within the famed Tuolumne Meadows of Yosemite National Park. Though it covers a modest 65 feet in a single pitch, this climb packs a punch—especially near the top where a steep headwall demands a precise and committed move to reach the ledge. Approaching this route, you find yourself stepping onto granite that shows subtle textures under your fingers, the rock both solid and inviting.
The route starts with a series of smooth but straightforward moves, allowing climbers to build confidence before confronting the crux at the upper section. Here, the climb rises sharply, requiring balance and control to navigate a short but steep headwall. In earlier guidebooks, four bolts protected this climb, but today one has been removed, injecting a bit of spice into the ascent. Despite this change, the move to the first bolt remains accessible to all comfortable at 5.9, adding an element of hands-on rock reading and precise footwork.
Protection consists of three bolts spaced to keep the challenge engaging while ensuring safety. Although there are no fixed anchors at the top, setting up a solid belay is straightforward thanks to ledges that offer secure gear placements. The granite's quality here rewards careful placements and thoughtful movement.
Circle A Wall’s location within Tuolumne Meadows places Joe Mamba in an alpine environment where cool breezes rustle the pine trees and granite domes glow in the shifting daylight. The climb is best enjoyed in late spring through early fall, as snow and rain can make granite slick and approaches tricky. The access trail winds through open forest, offering a pleasant 15-minute approach with mild elevation gain, making this route an excellent choice for a half-day adventure.
For climbers aiming to sharpen their sport climbing skills or those exploring Yosemite beyond the valley floor, Joe Mamba offers a direct, tactile experience. The climb’s modest length hides its character: a test of composure on steep granite punctuated by a crux that favors calm and calculated effort. Whether you’re warming up for longer routes or seeking a focused outing with reliable protection, this route aligns well with moderate experience levels and an appetite for precise movement.
Without fixed anchors at the top, ensure your anchor build is solid and double-checked before lowering. The granite can be slick when wet, so avoid climbing during or after precipitation, and approach with vigilance as the trail crosses some uneven terrain.
Approach via the well-marked trail from Tuolumne Meadows is about 15 minutes with light elevation gain.
Best climbed between late spring and early fall to avoid slippery granite from snow or rain.
Bring a set of quickdraws suited for sport routes and a standard rack for establishing anchors.
Wear moderately stiff climbing shoes to handle the steep granite headwall efficiently.
Three bolts protect the climb, with one previously existing bolt now removed to increase the climbing’s engagement. No bolted anchors are installed at the top, but ample ledges allow for secure anchor setups.
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