Classic Routes

Back in 1979, tower trips could be serious business. Spring-loaded cams had yet to debut. Falls were rare, but potential air was huge.

One climber’s quest for the promised land

Check out Shelma Jun's author page.

Check out Chris Kalman's author page.

Fontainebleau’s groundbreaking first 6a, No. 22 on the Bas-Cuvier Red Circuit

Where plaisir climbing first came to American soil

8 miles, 9 summits—High Sierra air

Leavenworth’s mysterious, under-the-radar sandstone spire.

The exquisite finger crack that inspired the author’s trad-climbing career

Climbing the Needles’ lightning rod of Khayyam Spire

The story behind one of Bishop’s most prized (and misspelled) problems

The line that cemented new tactics, new gear, and a new grade

Check out James Lucas's author page.

Scarface is a photographic rite of passage for Indian Creek climbers

Amazing views, good gear, thoughtful 5.9 climbing, and 5.14 exposure: One of the least-climbed Gunks routes is also one of the most classic.

The route that revolutionized Western Washington climbing

Check out Drew Higgins's author page.

Check out James Lucas's author page.

Inside Colorado’s most famous route

Scarface, in Indian Creek, is not just a pretty climb—it’s also a great climb. Here's what you need to know about the climb (and the shot).