Nevada's Hidden Gems
Alex Honnold highlights Nevada as a surprisingly exceptional climbing destination, often overlooked due to its association with the desert and Las Vegas
Strip. He points out that the state boasts abundant mountains and rock formations, offering a wealth of climbing opportunities that remain largely undiscovered by the wider climbing community. A prime example he shares is the Wild Granites, an area lauded as the 'Fitz Roy of Nevada,' featuring striking granite spires. This remote location offers a challenging 10-pitch, 5.13a trad climb, reminiscent of Yosemite's Tuolumne Meadows, yet it remains largely unknown. Honnold also recounts an experience driving north of Ely, where he stumbled upon striking columnar basalt formations, unlisted on common climbing databases and devoid of established anchors, underscoring the sheer abundance of unexplored rock throughout Nevada for adventurous climbers.
Adventures Amidst Storms
During the filming of his new travel show, 'Get a Little Out There,' Honnold and his climbing partners encountered challenging weather conditions that amplified the adventure. While exploring Great Basin National Park, the team faced a significant storm that covered the landscape in snow, giving the environment a distinctly alpine feel. This unexpected turn meant their planned climbing objectives became more about enduring the elements, with winds gusting up to 50 mph and a substantial hike due to road closures. Similarly, an excursion with Tommy Caldwell around the state involved unexpected snowy conditions, transforming what might have been a straightforward climb into a more rugged and epic experience. These moments, though difficult, added a layer of authentic adventure to the filming, showcasing the unpredictable nature of exploring remote areas and the resilience required to pursue climbing objectives under adverse circumstances.
Juggling a Packed Schedule
Alex Honnold openly admits to feeling a constant sense of being overwhelmed by his multifaceted life, describing his approach as running a 'tight ship' to manage numerous commitments. Beyond his climbing pursuits, he is deeply involved in hosting a podcast, actively supporting solar energy initiatives globally through his foundation, and recently participated in a livestreamed free solo of a skyscraper. Furthermore, his role as a father to two young daughters under the age of four demands significant attention. To maintain balance, Honnold strategically allocates specific time slots for each activity, ensuring progress across his diverse projects. He emphasizes that even during periods of intense activity, he carves out time for essential elements like family vacations, such as a two-month stay in Tahoe for training and quality time, and fitting in sport climbing sessions whenever possible.
Future Climbing Aspirations
Looking ahead to 2026, Alex Honnold's climbing plans are centered around family experiences and revisiting beloved locations, rather than embarking on grand expeditions. A significant upcoming trip involves a family visit to Fontainebleau, France, with the primary goal of allowing his two young daughters to enjoy bouldering in the renowned forest. Following this, he intends to dedicate time to Yosemite, aiming for another productive season in the iconic park, similar to his recent success after becoming a father. Honnold currently has no other specific expeditions or major climbing projects firmly scheduled, indicating a preference for a more focused approach that accommodates his evolving personal life while still engaging with his passion for climbing.
Defining Terrors
When comparing his most daunting experiences, Alex Honnold unequivocally identifies free-soloing a 5.11+ slab as far more terrifying than visiting Nevada's famously quirky Clown Motel. While acknowledging the unsettling and unique atmosphere of the Clown Motel, he found himself intrigued by its peculiar charm and the devoted clientele. He recounts an amusing encounter with a guest heavily tattooed with clowns, highlighting the diverse and unexpected human experiences Nevada offers. In contrast, the inherent risks and psychological intensity of free soloing, particularly on a less forgiving surface like slab, present a profound and immediate fear that transcends the novelty of unusual roadside attractions. This distinction underscores Honnold's deep respect for the serious dangers involved in high-stakes climbing.
