Sasha DiGiulian's Historic Ascent of El Capitan's Longest Route

American climber Sasha DiGiulian has made history by becoming the first woman to free-climb the longest route of El Capitan, known as the Platinum Wall, located in Yosemite National Park, California. This ascent, completed over 23 days, involved significant preparation and resilience in the face of harsh weather conditions. DiGiulian began her climb on November 2, 2023, alongside her partner Elliot Faber, who had previously helped establish the route but had not climbed it himself.

Sasha DiGiulian First Woman to Free-Climb El Capitan’s Longest Route Despite StormsWJZ - CBS BaltimoreRed Bulletin

The Platinum Wall spans approximately 3,000 feet and consists of 39 pitches. After nine days of climbing, an unexpected storm forced DiGiulian and Faber to halt their ascent on the 32nd pitch, known as the Golden Edge. They endured severe weather, including wind, rain, and snow, while living on a portaledge—a hanging tent used by climbers on vertical rock faces. During this time, they rationed supplies, including freeze-dried meals and DiGiulian's self-invented Send bars, while coping with the challenges of limited sleep and extreme conditions.

Sasha DiGiulian First Woman to Free-Climb El Capitan’s Longest Route Despite Storms

Despite the difficulties, DiGiulian described the experience as both mentally and physically challenging, stating, "The storm was kind of this mental but also physical challenge because you're just stripped of any sense of normal." After 18 days on the wall, the weather improved, allowing them to resume their ascent. However, the conditions remained treacherous, with wet rock and falling ice posing additional hazards.

Sasha DiGiulian First Woman to Free-Climb El Capitan’s Longest Route Despite Storms

Just short of the summit, Faber had to leave due to a family emergency, prompting DiGiulian to wait two days for his return. Ultimately, he gave her his blessing to summit alone. On November 26, 2023, DiGiulian reached the top, marking a significant milestone in her climbing career and in the history of the sport.

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DiGiulian expressed her pride in the accomplishment, stating, "It’s the proudest climb of my career. I can’t believe it!" Rob 'Platinum' Miller, who established the route, praised her achievement, emphasizing the significance of seeing climbers tackle a route that took years to develop.

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While DiGiulian's ascent has been celebrated, some critics argue that the increasing popularity of extreme climbing routes may lead to safety concerns and environmental impacts in national parks. However, DiGiulian's focus remains on the personal and mental challenges of climbing, as she noted, "Climbing is this space for me where I get to be really locked in and focused on what my physical and mental self is capable of."

Sasha DiGiulian First Woman to Free-Climb El Capitan’s Longest Route Despite Storms

• “When we got to the top, after 23 days of this climb, I took a step and I just started laughing cause I was like, I haven't walked in so long,” — Sasha DiGiulian

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• “The storm was kind of this mental but also physical challenge because you're just stripped of any sense of normal,” — Sasha DiGiulian

WJZ - CBS Baltimore

• “I’ve always been rooting for her and wanting her to succeed,” — Rob 'Platinum' Miller

Red Bulletin

Sasha DiGiulian's ascent of El Capitan's Platinum Wall not only highlights her exceptional skills and determination but also serves as an inspiration for future generations of climbers.

Sasha DiGiulian First Woman to Free-Climb El Capitan’s Longest Route Despite Storms