In his 20s Dan was a dedicated rock climber and ice climber. He led some of the most difficult ice climbs in Vermont and New Hampshire and made three ascents of El Capitan in Yosemite Valley, the highest rock wall in North America.
The Southwest Face of El Capitan is 3,000′ high. Climbing it usually takes three or four days with the nights spent on ledges.
Dan also excelled in free soloing – climbing alone without a safety rope.
Photos from Dan’s ascent of the Salathe Wall Route on El Capitan:
The Southwest Face of El Capitan.
Dan on top of El Capitan Spire, feeding rope to his partner, who is leading.
Looking down from 2,600′. In the documentary film Free Solo, this section is called the “Enduro Corner.”
Dan’s partner following Dan on the Headwall
Long Ledge, where they spent their fourth and final night on the wall. It’s about 3′ wide.
