North American Classic Climbs

Charlotte Dome

South Face

Some of the most interesting, colorful, and climbable rock anywhere, set in spectacular Kings Canyon National Park. Finding the correct start is key to an enjoyable climb - many variations and totally independent climbs have been done on the broad buttress by climbers assuming they were on this classic route. Stories of very difficult moves above long runouts are common. Follow the SuperTopo referenced here carefully, and you'll be rewarded with one of the finest climbing experiences at this difficulty level on the continent. This one must be earned through a long approach, either from the west from Kings Canyon, or over the crest of the Sierras from the east via Kearsarge Pass. The latter is recommended.

Type:

Alpine Rock

Seriousness:

Location:

Kings Canyon Nat'l Park, California, USA

References:

G37, I1 , W32

Rating:

IV, 5.7

Route Descriptions & Maps:

First Ascent:

C. Jones, G. Rowell, F. Beckey, October 1970.

Trip Reports:

Halladay 9/05
Bindner 7/99
Peterson 6/95