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Mr. Kamikaze: Precision Moves on Thin Stone at Mammoth Lakes

Mammoth Lakes, California United States
thin crack
runout crux
granite
single pitch
stemmings
lieback
microwire gear
Length: 50 ft
Type: Trad
Stars
Pitches
1
Location
Mr. Kamikaze
Aspect
South Facing

Overview

"Mr. Kamikaze offers a compact but intense trad climb on Mammoth Lakes’ granite, featuring thin cracks and a runout crux that rewards precise gear placements and steady nerves. This single pitch demands finesse and tactical footwork amid sharply textured stone."

Mr. Kamikaze: Precision Moves on Thin Stone at Mammoth Lakes

Mr. Kamikaze presents a focused challenge on the granite faces of the Sierra Eastside, demanding sharp technique and steady nerves. This single pitch route, just 50 feet in length, threads thin cracks and delicate face moves atop a compact gray protrusion that demands your full attention. As you climb, the rock’s subtle textures guide your hands and feet, while offset seams invite careful stem and lieback maneuvers to reach a ledge that feels like a small victory after the sustained effort. Protection here is generally reliable, allowing you to place gear up to 2 inches and secure some solid RP placements before hitting the crux, where the difficulty spikes, and the margin for error tightens. The route’s rating of 5.10a R signals that leads are runout in spots and the thin moves above your last gear placement require confidence and precise footwork.

Approaching Mr. Kamikaze means accessing the Dike Wall on Mammoth Lakes’ North Face, a location offering striking views of the Sierra Nevada. The terrain gives a hands-on experience with granite that is both clean and textured. Climbers will appreciate the demand for technical skills rather than brute force, making this route a worthy step up for those comfortable with runouts on trad gear.

Gear-wise, pack a rack with protection up to 2 inches, and don’t forget your microwires—these will be essential in the tighter placements. A sling will also come in handy for anchor tie-offs, especially since the triple coldshut anchor here is shared with nearby routes Mongoloid and Mr. D.N.A. The shared anchor emphasizes the cozy proximity of this cluster of classic lines.

Seasonally, the Eastside sun illuminates this wall for much of the day, but morning ascents offer cooler temperatures and firmer conditions on the rock, enhancing friction during the technical moves. Be prepared for loose dirt on the approach and ensure your footwear is appropriate for a short but sometimes gritty hike through rugged forest trails.

For those drawn to precise footwork, mental grit, and a taste of controlled risk, Mr. Kamikaze earns its name. The climb’s slender, elegant crack climbing mixed with sharp face holds requires both focus and finesse. Whether you're brushing up your thin crack skills or looking to push into runout territory with some solid protection placements before the crux, this route delivers an instructive and rewarding outing high in the Sierra wilderness.

Climber Safety

The route’s protection is decent but runout sections require climbers to be confident in thin gear placements. Be extra cautious on the thin moves above your last piece, and double-check anchor setup at the shared triple coldshut to avoid crowding or gear wear.

Route Details

TypeTrad
Pitches1
Length50 feet

Local Tips

Start your climb in cooler morning hours for better friction on the granite.

Mind the runout above your last gear; trust your placements and stay focused.

Microwires are essential—don’t skimp on your small cam selection.

Approach trails can be loose; wear sturdy shoes and watch your footing.

Route Rating

Difficulty
5.10a R
Quality
Consensus:The 5.10a rating on Mr. Kamikaze is firm and honest, with an R (runout) designation emphasizing the cautious leader must exercise patience and precision. The crux sits up high, just beyond well-placed pro, meaning the mental challenge grows alongside the physical demands. Compared to other Mammoth Lakes cracks, it leans toward technical finesse rather than pure strength.

Gear Requirements

Bring a range of gear up to 2 inches with emphasis on microwires for the thin crack sections. A sling is recommended for the triple coldshut anchor, which is shared with Mongoloid and Mr. D.N.A.

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Tags

thin crack
runout crux
granite
single pitch
stemmings
lieback
microwire gear