As you soar above the clouds with Advanced Air, envision your destination: Merced, California. This gateway to Yosemite National Park is not only a breathtaking landscape but also a climber’s paradise. To celebrate the allure of Yosemite and its climbing culture, we had the privilege of interviewing the world-renowned rock climber, Alex Honnold. Known for his extraordinary free solo climb of El Capitan, Honnold shares his deep connection with Yosemite and offers insights into the climbing world that will inspire your next adventure.

“Yosemite had the most impressive and accessible granite big walls in the world. The rock is amazing.” – Alex Honnold

How would you describe your personal connection to Yosemite National Park?

People call Yosemite the mecca of rock climbing. I’ve personally spent about three months a year there for ten years. So I’ve spent almost three years of my life in Yosemite. It’s almost like a home away from home. Yosemite is where I’ve honed my skills and found a profound sense of belonging among the towering cliffs.

Before the El Capitan solo climb and fame, what were you doing? Was being a professional climber always your goal?

It kind of just happened. When I was growing up, professional climbing wasn’t really a thing because the industry was much smaller. I started picking up sponsors, making a living, and eventually realized I was a professional climber without ever having really aspired to it.

Was there another career path you considered?

Not really. I was studying engineering but stopped going to school. I thought about mountain guiding or being a camp counselor, something related to rock climbing. But I never pursued those paths because climbing became my full-time focus. Also, a lot of my friends do rope access and things like that where they work on windmills, oil rigs, or do rigging for events. Basically, there are a lot of things that are sort of peripheral to climbing that a lot of climbers do.

Was North Face one of your first sponsors?

Yes, since 2007. I’ve been lucky to have consistent sponsors like The North Face, Black Diamond, and La Sportiva. These brands have been integral to my climbing journey, providing support and opportunities to explore the world.

Any notable experiences with these sponsorships?

Being sponsored by The North Face has been amazing. They’ve supported expeditions that allowed me to climb in Antarctica, Africa, and South America. These experiences broadened my horizons and helped me grow as a climber.

Did North Face help with media training?

They did once, before my TED Talk in 2018. They got me a speaking coach who helped structure my talk. It was incredibly helpful and formed the backbone of my corporate speaking engagements. It showed me the potential of being well-spoken and articulate.

What advice would you give to climbers of various skill levels who want to experience Yosemite for the first time?

Yosemite is an incredible playground for climbers of all skill levels. If you’re a beginner, you have two main options. You can go bouldering if you have a pad, shoes, and the necessary gear. Yosemite’s bouldering spots are world-class and very accessible, often located in the campgrounds. Your other option is to hire a guide from the Yosemite Mountain School. They can take you on an easy route, allowing you to experience climbing safely.

For more adventurous hikers, there are decommissioned trails that offer unique challenges. These trails are less traveled and can lead you to some amazing, secluded spots like hidden waterfalls and scenic viewpoints. Whether you’re bouldering, hiking, or climbing, Yosemite has something for everyone.

Is El Cap your favorite climb in Yosemite?

El Cap is the most impressive and inspiring wall in Yosemite, but other walls like Leaning Tower are more fun to climb due to their unique holds and geometry. Leaning Tower, located near Bridalveil Falls, offers an experience closest to gym climbing. The holds are cool, geometric, and blocky, making the climb enjoyable and engaging. El Cap, on the other hand, is smooth and slippery, which can be inspiring but also challenging.

What’s your routine when you visit Yosemite?

I usually visit Yosemite twice a year. My summer trip is more of a warm-up for the fall. I climb routes on El Cap and other walls to stay current and keep my skills sharp. The fall trip is when I attempt harder climbs and set bigger goals. This approach helps me maintain my fitness and familiarity with the terrain, ensuring I’m ready for more challenging ascents.

How do you prepare for climbing?

Climbing-specific workouts like hangboarding are essential. I also do some weight training for balance and occasional cardio like jogging or biking. However, the best way to train for climbing is by climbing itself.

What advice would you give to aspiring climbers who dream of scaling El Capitan?

Build up to it. When I first climbed in Yosemite, my goal was to climb El Cap with a rope and a partner, aiming to do it in a day. We followed a progression: climbing smaller walls, then medium-sized walls, and eventually tackling El Cap. It took us 22 hours the first time. Climbing El Cap is a significant achievement for any climber, so take your time, develop your skills, and work your way up.

Since his historic free solo climb of El Capitan, Alex Honnold has continued to push the boundaries of adventure and exploration. He has starred in the new docuseries “Arctic Ascent,” where he embarks on a daring expedition to climb one of the highest unclimbed sea cliffs in Greenland. This journey not only showcases his climbing prowess but also highlights the impacts of climate change. Beyond climbing, Alex remains deeply committed to philanthropy through the Honnold Foundation, which supports solar energy projects worldwide, aiming to promote sustainability and reduce environmental impact.

As you plan your next adventure, consider the thrilling possibilities that await in Yosemite National Park. With Advanced Air, reaching this iconic destination is easier than ever. Let the words of Alex Honnold inspire you to explore, climb, and discover the breathtaking beauty of Yosemite. Whether you’re a seasoned climber or a nature enthusiast, Yosemite promises an unforgettable experience. So pack your bags, book your flight, and embark on an adventure of a lifetime.