Climbing Nutrition on Washington Column: Seth Anderson Story

Climbing nutrition becomes critical on multi-day big wall routes. Seth Anderson's recent ascent of Washington Column demonstrates how proper fueling supports performance on technical granite.

For Seth Anderson, spring 2024 meant a return to Yosemite's granite walls. His objective: the South Face of Washington Column (V 5.8, C2), a 1964 Fredricks-Kor classic that continues to test big wall climbers.

Seth and his partner Thomas arrived at the base weighted down with 50+ pound haul bags. Finding Dinner Ledge empty, they established their basecamp with a clear view of Half Dome and Glacier Point. Rather than rest, they seized the remaining daylight to tackle the route's crux - the notorious Kor Roof.

The next morning brought their summit push. Moving light with just a liter of water each and essential nutrition, they fixed ropes back to Dinner Ledge where their camping gear remained. Thomas led the first block, efficiently covering five pitches through a mix of aid and free climbing. At their hanging belay, they each mixed up a RecPak for essential climbing nutrition- quick nutrition without the need for stoves or bulky meal prep in their exposed position.

The climbing remained engaging - quality aid sections culminating in a 5.8 finger crack through a steep bulge. Back at their bivy ledge after seven long rappels, they mixed their remaining coffee-flavored RecPaks, the caffeine boost helping fuel the final descent. As darkness fell, Seth joined the traditional chorus of climber calls echoing across the valley, marking another successful day on Yosemite granite.

Seth's experience highlights why climbing nutrition planning is essential for big wall success. Strategic fueling without bulk or preparation time allows climbers to maintain energy on exposed routes.

This profile is part of our ongoing series featuring outdoor athletes in the field, documenting their authentic experiences and insights.