The Current Meet the woman who climbed this enormous sheer cliff and made history
Dec 18, 2025
Sasha DiGiulian, a groundbreaking professional rock climber, shares her harrowing journey as the first woman to ascend the challenging Platinum route on El Capitan. She describes the emotional and physical toll of the climb, including injuries and the unique experience of sleeping on a portaledge while facing a nine-day storm. Sasha reflects on her mindset during challenging moments, tackles criticism from trolls, and reveals her desire to inspire young girls in climbing. Her triumph at the summit brings an emotional release, marking a historic achievement in the climbing world.
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Epic Ascent And Nine-Day Storm
- Sasha DiGiulian spent weeks climbing El Capitan and rode out a storm on a ledge for nine days before finishing the Platinum route.
- She became the first woman to complete that ultra-challenging route after a 23-day push.
Exposure Equals Technical Demand
- El Capitan's climbing demands tiny footholds, slab technique, and sustained physical and mental effort across many pitches.
- Exposure matters as much as strength, since climbers work under constant risk hundreds to thousands of feet above ground.
Sleeping On A Portaledge
- Climbers sleep suspended on a portaledge, a small elevated tent fixed to master points with rated gear while wearing a harness.
- Sasha described limited space, freeze-dried food, wag bags for toilets, and careful weight-and-drop management.