Munginella Approach Scramble

About

Munginella Approach Scramble is the climbers' path to Munginella, a 5.6, three-pitch trad climb in the Five Open Books formation on Yosemite Valley's north side, not far from Yosemite Falls. It's one of the more popular first-multipitch routes in the Valley, and this listing covers the approach — not a general hiking trail, but the route climbers use to reach the base.

Finding the Start

From the Yosemite Falls area, the route to the base crosses a streambed and follows two small signposts marked with a carabiner symbol — the first tucked into the woods near the "Profile of a Waterfall" information sign, the second right at the start of the climb itself. Staying on route, the approach takes about 15 minutes.

The Scramble to the Base

After the streambed crossing, a short third-class scramble leads up and right along a ledge to the first belay at a tree. It's easy climbing by trad standards but exposed enough that most parties treat it with the same care as the route above, not as a casual walk-up.

Grade: 5.6, climbed in three pitches (or two with a 60-meter rope)
Gear: a standard trad rack, with protection up to roughly 2.5 inches
Descent: a walk-off trail, or a rappel from fixed bolts with a 60-meter rope

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this a hiking trail for casual visitors?

Not really — it's the climbers' approach to the Munginella route in the Five Open Books, ending in a third-class scramble to the first belay tree.

How long does the approach take?

About 15 minutes from the Yosemite Falls area if you stay on route, crossing a streambed and following the carabiner-marked signposts.

What's the climbing grade and pitch count?

Munginella is rated 5.6 and typically climbed in three pitches, though it can be linked into two pitches with a 60-meter rope.

How do I get down after climbing it?

There's a walk-off descent trail, or you can rappel from fixed bolts using a 60-meter rope.