Story perspectives

Alex Honnold Makes History with Taipei 101 Solo Climb

1/26/2026

Summary

Honnold Climbs Taipei 101

Alex Honnold became the first to free solo climb Taipei 101, reaching the top in 1 hour 31 minutes on January 24, 2026.
The 1,667-foot ascent was streamed live on Netflix.
Honnold paused midway to greet his wife, Sanni McCandless, who watched from the 60th floor.
Taiwan's President Lai Ching-te praised the achievement, calling it "truly moving".
Honnold's lifelong dream of climbing a skyscraper was realized despite earlier rejections.

Summary

Honnold Speaks at Yosemite

American rock climber Alex Honnold spoke at Yosemite National Park on October 26, 2025, amid a shutdown.
The shutdown began on October 1 due to a budget impasse and has left rangers short-staffed.
Honnold is known for free solo climbs, including a record ascent of Taipei 101.
The film Free Solo won the 2019 Oscar for Best Documentary Feature and holds a 97% Rotten Tomatoes score.

History

Historical Context

The National Park Service Organic Act of 1975 laid the groundwork for preserving iconic landscapes like Yosemite, shaping outdoor recreation and climbing culture in the U.S. Alex Honnold's 2026 free solo ascent of Taipei 101 exemplifies this legacy, highlighting climbing's evolution into a celebrated sport. Taiwan's President Lai Ching-te's recognition of Honnold underscores the global influence of such achievements on tourism and inspiration for future climbers.

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Honnold Climbs Taipei 101

Alex Honnold became the first to free solo climb Taipei 101, reaching the top in 1 hour 31 minutes on January 24, 2026.
The 1,667-foot ascent was streamed live on Netflix.
Honnold paused midway to greet his wife, Sanni McCandless, who watched from the 60th floor.
Taiwan's President Lai Ching-te praised the achievement, calling it "truly moving".
Honnold's lifelong dream of climbing a skyscraper was realized despite earlier rejections.

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