Astroman | E5/6c+ Multi-pitch on Washington Column


9 pitches. Also known as East Face of Washington Column. Topos: PlanetMountain, SuperTopo.

5.11c

First climbed in 1959 by Warren Harding, Glen Denny and Chuck Pratt as the East Face of Washington Column. Although this ascent was mainly aided, the Harding Slot - free climbed at a notional 5.9 - is still a considerable challenge for many despite its relatively low grade.

References

[1] https://www.mountainproject.com/route/105845493/astroman

Contributors
TdG
22 contributions since 10th September 2025.
remus
17 contributions since 19th May 2021.
duncancritchley
17 contributions since 9th October 2025.

Pics + Vids

No pics or vids yet.


Ascents

8 recorded ascents.

Climber Style Ascent Date Suggested Grade
John Long Lead | worked May 1975
First ascent. With John Bachar and Ron Kauk.
Ron Kauk Lead | worked May 1975
First ascent. With John Bachar and John Long.

[The enduro corner] is one of the most memorable leads of my life.

John Bachar Lead | worked May 1975
First ascent. With Ron Kauk and John Long.
Pete Livesey Alternate Leads 1977
With Ron Fawcett.

Only The Best Route In The World

Ron Fawcett Alternate Leads | worked 1977
With Pete Livesey.
Peter Croft Solo | worked 1987

An incredible solo ascent for it's time.

The same year Peter also soloed Astroman and The Rostrum in the same day.

Dean Potter Solo | worked 2000
Alex Honnold Solo | worked 2007

The same day Alex soloed The North Face on The Rostrum, emulating Peter Croft's effort in 1987.