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3. Higher Cathedral Spire

California > Yosemite NP > Yosemite Valley > Valley S Side > P. Cathedral Area
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Description

This is the higher of the two spires. It is to the right of the Lower Spire when viewed from the north.

This spire offers climbing up to Grade V big wall.

Higher Spire was first climbed in April 1934, by Jules Eichorn, Bestor Robinson and Dick Leonard.

Chuck Wilts and Spencer Austin freed the route in 1944.
Descend by rappel.

Depending where you are on the Spire it may be shady and cold or sunny and warm. From the top of the spire you'll get some of the best views of El Cap in the Valley and a secluded summit from tourists.

Getting There

The P. Cathedral Area page has the parking and initial hiking information.

Upper Cathedral Spire is approached by going right and up the "Spires Gully", west of the formation, which is the same approach for Braille Book and Upper Cathedral Rock.

Approach time is ~30-60 minutes depending on route and how much you pack.

Routes from Left to Right

Photos [Hide ALL Photos]

Summit of Higher Cathedral Spire overlooking Yosemite Valley
[Hide Photo] Summit of Higher Cathedral Spire overlooking Yosemite Valley
Higher Cathedral Spire.
[Hide Photo] Higher Cathedral Spire.
Top of Higher Cathedral Spire. RIP Andrew Berge.
[Hide Photo] Top of Higher Cathedral Spire. RIP Andrew Berge.
On top of Higher Cathedral Spire.
[Hide Photo] On top of Higher Cathedral Spire.
View of Cathedral Spire from Higher Cathedral
[Hide Photo] View of Cathedral Spire from Higher Cathedral
Brad Farnan and I at the top of Higher Cathedral Spire
[Hide Photo] Brad Farnan and I at the top of Higher Cathedral Spire
Having Fun on Higher Cathedral Spire
[Hide Photo] Having Fun on Higher Cathedral Spire
Higher Cathedral Spire and The East Buttress of Middle Cathedral Rock.<br>
Photo by Blitzo.
[Hide Photo] Higher Cathedral Spire and The East Buttress of Middle Cathedral Rock. Photo by Blitzo.