2025 SEES SURGE IN BIG WALL FREE CLIMBING RECORDS WORLDWIDE

The first half of 2025 has been historic for big wall free climbing, with groundbreaking ascents in Yosemite, Patagonia, and the Alps.

Most notably, American climbers Emily Harrington and Jordan Cannon completed a free ascent of the rarely climbed “Eternal Flame” on Nameless Tower in Pakistan, making it one of the boldest ascents of the season. Meanwhile, in Yosemite, Seb Bouin pushed the limits again by establishing a new variation on El Capitan at a proposed grade of 9a.

Analysts say the combination of improved weather forecasting, lighter gear, and a new generation of elite climbers is driving a golden age for high-difficulty alpine routes.