Seb Berthe sends Dawn Wall
On January 31st, 2025, after 14 days on the wall, Sébastien Berthe topped out The Dawn Wall (9a) on El Capitan, completing one of the most significant ascents in climbing history. This marks only the third-ever free ascent of the route, following Tommy Caldwell & Kevin Jorgeson (2015) and Adam Ondra (2016).
The Dawn Wall is the hardest big wall free climb on the planet, with 32 pitches, including two cruxes of 9a (5.14d). But what makes Seb’s ascent truly historic isn’t just the numbers—it’s his impeccable style and bold message.
A Clean Ascent in Every Way
In a time when flying across the world for climbing trips is the norm, Seb chose a different path. Instead of taking the easy way, he spent months crossing the Atlantic by sailboat, traveling by land through Central America, and minimizing his carbon footprint every step of the way. This wasn’t just a climbing goal—it was a commitment to clean adventure.
This is exactly the kind of forward-thinking approach to climbing and the planet that we at CHALK REBELS stand for. Seb proves that going big doesn’t mean going dirty, and that’s the kind of mindset that should shape the future of our sport.
Climbing Against Fascism
But Seb’s ascent wasn’t just about style and difficulty—it was also a statement. He dedicated his climb to the fight against fascism, carrying a banner to the summit reading “El Cap Climbers Against Fascism”.
And we couldn’t agree more. The bastards gaining power all over the world—the ones attacking human rights, eroding democracy, and slowing down the fight against climate change—need to be called out for what they are: fascists. This isn’t just politics; this is about defending the progress we’ve made in protecting the planet.
Seb used his hardest climb ever to send a message: silence is complicity, and resistance is a duty. That’s what makes this ascent one for the history books.
The GOAT of Big Wall Free Climbing?
With this ascent, Sébastien Berthe cements his place among the greatest big wall free climbers in history. He climbed in pure ground-up, no-falls style, without returning to the valley. His ethical commitment to the planet and his willingness to take a stand set him apart from the rest.
We at CHALK REBELS couldn’t be prouder to support Seb on this journey. His relentless determination, his refusal to compromise, and his commitment to a better future are exactly what we believe in.
Seb, you're a legend. Continue doing things your way. Climb hard, stay safe, stay Seb!