South Summit Wall Rock Climbing

This section of the Cirque is beautifully laid out with about 20 routes ascending the many cracks and dihedrals that split this long formation until its' south end where it wraps west into Question Mark Wall. Beginning in the _V_ notch that separates the North Summit and South Summit, a wide variety of difficulty ratings and climbing techniques are available from the 5.4 _Pete's Staircase_, to the 5.10c _Roof Stopper_, as well as a few aid lines up to A2. The most prominent feature along this escarpment is Tom's Thumb, a large pinnacle jutting out from the northern section, which can be easily seen from the valley floor. The granite is good quality and placements are secure. Watch for rock fall along the lower angle routes, as the leader, or even the rope can easily dislodge material onto those below. As with the North Summit wall, hikers are also quite prevalent and I personally experienced an apple core _near miss_ which then actually touched my climbing partner as it hurtled down the face. Wear a helmet.