South Face Mount Watkins | A3 (approx) Aid Climb on Mount Watkins

United States / California / Mariposa County

Mixed aid and free (5.9) on the first ascent

Contributors
duncancritchley
96 contributions since 4th November 2025.

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Ascents

5 successful ascents recorded.

Climber Style Ascent Date Suggested Grade
Chuck Pratt First ascent. With some points of aid. Alternate Leads | ground up Jul 1964
Yvon Chouinard First ascent. With some points of aid. Alternate Leads | ground up Jul 1964

A warm July, the concave face acting like a solar oven, and inadequate water supplies made for a notoriously thirsty first ascent.

"By the fourth day Yvon had lost so much weight from dehydration that he could lower his climbing knickers without undoing a single button. For the first time in seven years I was able to remove a ring from my finger, and Harding, whose legendary resemblance to the classical conception of Satan, took on an even more gaunt and sinister appearance." (Chuck Pratt)

References

[1] https://publications.americanalpineclub.org/articles/12196533900/The-South-Face-of-Mount-Watkins

All free bar 9 points of aid at approximately 5.12

References

[1] https://publications.americanalpineclub.org/articles/12198108700/

All free bar 9 points of aid at approximately 5.12.

References

[1] https://publications.americanalpineclub.org/articles/12198108700/