PRINT: Rock Climb Zumwalt Boulder Arete, Sequoia & Kings Canyon NP

Zumwalt Boulder Arete

5.9, Sport, TR, 30 ft (9 m),

Avg: 2.3 from 3 votes
FA: unknown
California > Sequoia & Kings… > Kings Canyon > Zumwalt Meadows Area

Access Issue: Always check SEKI road conditions and peregrine closures Details

The SeKi Rock Climbing website nps.gov/seki/planyourvisit/… has current closures as well as other climbing information for visitors.

Moro Rock (SEKI) and Chimney Rocks usually have nesting closures every year from April 1 to August 15.

As of April 2016, all routes are open to climbing.

Description

This climb goes up the obvious arete right next to the trail on the boulder, following a line of obvious bolts. Starts out easy, maybe 5.7 or so, until the very last awkward 5.9 mantle to get to the chains. You can also scramble up 4th class around the back side of the boulder and set up on top-rope. A great easy climb with a short approach!

Location

Follow the Zumwalt Meadow trail from the parking lot, crossing the bridge over the river and reaching a junction. At the junction turn left towards the meadow. Next fork go right uphill (a left will take you onto the boardwalk in the meadow) and hike along trail until you reach a large house-sized boulder right next to the trail on the left side.

Protection

5 bolts (1 alpine draw). 2 bolt anchor with quick links for rappel.

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The 5.9 arete

Comments [Hide ALL Comments]

wes arrrr

As of August 2019: Happened upon this route while hiking last weekend, and looks like someone removed the hangars from the first 3 bolts, but the bolts and nuts are still there, and the hangars present on the anchors and bolt right before that. Also some climbing shoes stashed in the rocks right there... Looks like a fun climb though. Aug 14, 2019

Jacob E
Santa Barbara, CA

5.9

Correction to below: the bolts that don't have hangers are the 5.12. This climb (5.9 arete) is very well protected with 5 bolts and hangers. Everything looked almost new and is in great condition. Fun quick climb with great meadow views! Aug 5, 2020