A climber in a red shirt and helmet, equipped with gear, taking a selfie while attached to a rock face with visible climbing equipment and a scenic valley in the background.

Hummingbird: New 13-Pitch Yosemite Big Wall Established

Anano Atabegashvili | September 4, 2025
News
A climber in a red shirt and helmet, equipped with gear, taking a selfie while attached to a rock face with visible climbing equipment and a scenic valley in the background.

 Photo: tay1000000r

In August 2025, climber Taylor Martin achieved a remarkable feat by establishing ‘Hummingbird,’ a new 13-pitch big wall route on Sentinel Rock in Yosemite. Soloing the 1,600-foot line, Martin navigated previously unclimbed terrain, utilizing advanced aid techniques including beaks, hooks, and copperheads. The route, graded 5.9+ A4, crosses the Flying Buttress Direct twice but remains over 90% independent, offering a fresh perspective on the iconic rock face.

This ascent marks Martin’s third major first ascent in Yosemite, following ‘Dirt Worm’ and ‘The Infinite Now.’ Inspired by a tip from local climber Stu Kuperstock about an unfinished line attempted by Everett Phillips, ‘Hummingbird’ showcases Martin’s commitment to exploring uncharted routes in the Valley.

A steep, rocky mountain face under a clear blue sky, with a red line marking a climbing route from the base to the summit.

 Photo: tay1000000r