Alex Honnold, renowned for his free solo climbs, is preparing for a new challenge: a solo ascent of the 1,000-foot sandstone tower in Utah known as the Rostrum. He intends too complete the climb without ropes, harnesses, or any protective equipment.
Alex Honnold and Free Solo Climbing
Free solo climbing is a form of rock climbing in which the climber ascends without any ropes, harnesses, or other protective equipment. It is considered one of the most dangerous forms of climbing, as a single mistake can be fatal. REI defines free soloing as ”climbing rock without ropes, harnesses, or any other protective equipment.”
Honnold gained widespread recognition for his 2017 ropeless ascent of El Capitan, a 3,000-foot granite wall in Yosemite National Park.This feat was documented in the 2018 film Free Solo, which won an Academy Award for Best Documentary Feature. The Academy Awards website confirms Free Solo won Best Documentary Feature in 2019.
The rostrum Climb
The Rostrum, located in Canyonlands National Park, Utah, presents a unique challenge for Honnold. The 1,000-foot sandstone tower requires a different skillset then el Capitan due to the rock type and climbing style. The National Park Service details climbing regulations and facts for Canyonlands National Park, including areas like the Rostrum.
Honnold’s preparation for the Rostrum climb involves extensive reconnaissance and visualization. He spends considerable time studying the route and mentally rehearsing each move. He is also working with a team of support personnel who will monitor his progress and provide assistance if needed. As of January 26, 2026, Honnold has not yet completed the ascent, but is actively preparing.
Free Solo Documentary and Recognition
The 2018 documentary Free Solo,directed by Jimmy Chin and Elizabeth Chai Vasarhelyi,chronicles Honnold’s preparation and eventual ascent of El Capitan. The film provides an intimate look into Honnold’s mindset and the risks involved in free solo climbing.
Free Solo received critical acclaim and numerous awards, including a BAFTA Award for Best Documentary and the Academy Award for Best Documentary Feature. The British Academy film Awards website confirms Free Solo won the award for best Documentary in 2019.
Honnold’s accomplishments have inspired a wider audience to appreciate the sport of climbing and the pursuit of challenging goals. he continues to push the boundaries of what is absolutely possible in the world of free solo climbing.
Honnold also appears in content on Netflix.
