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Yosemite Valley December climbing

Original Post
Eli C · · Unknown Hometown · Joined Feb 2018 · Points: 0

Thoughts/experiences about valley climbing in December? Seeing an upcoming week+ of sunny days w highs in the 50’s. Obviously stuff will take a bit to dry out and I’m guessing a lot of areas might have snow/ice/water running through cracks always.  I also know that the lower elevation spots like the cookie and others can dry out quicker. Any experiences/rec’s about climbing in the valley in the winter during good weather windows would be much appreciated!! 

bob steed · · Gilroy, CA · Joined Mar 2010 · Points: 66

Your highest concentration of dry climbs will be the crags along the 140 and also the Reeds area.  Parkline will be the warmest area.  

Will be hit or miss in the Valley, but some south-facing crowded classics won't be too crowded.  Beware the ice chunks dropping down to the base of El Cap.  

Greg Estep · · charlotte, VT · Joined Oct 2017 · Points: 0

I love going to the valley in the late fall/early winter.  If the valley is under high pressure, sunny skies, you will notice a significant temperature inversion.  Temperatures tend to warm up about 10 degrees once you are above the trees along the walls of the valley.  Don't be surprised if you wish you were in a t-shirt while climbing nutcracker in the sun at noon!  I would watch the valley webcams and if the snow has melted off the floor, then your good to camp and climb comfortably (cold long nights are supported by drinking in the lodge bar next to the fire...).

M L · · Sonora, CA · Joined Sep 2012 · Points: 30

I'd like to go on mon and or tue, table mtn would be ok too

Eli C · · Unknown Hometown · Joined Feb 2018 · Points: 0

Thanks for the tips! I was hoping to head out next weekend but then the weather forecast changed :/ next time!

Guideline #1: Don't be a jerk.

Northern California
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