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The Sphinx Rock Climbing

Climbing Area Map

Routes in The Sphinx

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Sphinx Crack T,TR 5.10a 6a 18 VI+ 18 E1 5a

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Elevation:	4,554 ft
GPS:	37.55063, -119.63393 Google Map · Climbing Area Map
Page Views:	2,767 total · 33/month
Shared By:	Shawn Miller on May 16, 2017
Admins:	Mike Morley, Adam Stackhouse, Salamanizer Ski, Justin Johnsen, Vicki Schwantes Page Updates (admin only)

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Access Issue: Latest updates on closures, permits, and regulations. Details

Please visit climbingyosemite.com/ and nps.gov/yose/planyourvisit/… for the latest information on visiting Yosemite, including permits, regulations, and closure information.

Yosemite National Park has yearly closures for Peregrine Falcon Protection March 1- July 15. Always check the NPS website at nps.gov/yose/planyourvisit/… for the most current details and park alerts, and to learn more about the peregrine falcon, and how closures help it survive. This page also shares closures and warnings due to current fires, smoke, etc.

Description

Absolutely perfect rock quality and flawless features for a truly spectacular looking short climb. Top rope may be set up by a simple scramble around the left side, using a large tree and several cracks. Otherwise, Mark and Shirley Spencer's "Southern Yosemite Rock Climbs" advises friends #1-#3 for protection. The lower jugs can be bouldered for a warm-up, or used as alternative openings to the main climb. Beware the strong-smelling Mountain Misery shrub, which may irritate the skin on exposed ankles.

Several massive boulders stand nearby and dot the trailside en route to the sandy bench another half mile up the trail. No known routes are established on these rocks, however the features are there to make more incredible climbs.

Getting There

From the Chilnualna Falls trailhead, hike a quarter mile to the Lower Falls, where the trail switches back. Continue following this trail until you link up with the stock trail and forks to continue to the Upper Falls. About 30 yards along the Upper Falls Trail, the Sphinx is the split rock face on the right a few meters off the path, with spots of oddly perfect holds speckling the lower face.