Russian climber Vadim Timonov climbing boulder problem

Vadim Timonov on the First Ascent of Blackflip Sit (8C+/9A)

The Russian powerhouse delves into the next-level project and what it’s like to climb in the Djan-Tugan region

Tenaya athlete Vadim Timonov has dedicated three trips to the area to explore and establish new lines. Yet his main goal, he says, was a boulder close to the entrance, which largely went ignored because of its position and difficulty. The Blackflip project.

Baatara Gorge, Lebanon.

Repeating Avaatara

17-year-old French climber Victor Guillermin recounts his ascent of the legendary David Lama route in Lebanon’s Baatara Gorge.

When climbers conjure up a dream climbing trip, few probably think of Lebanon, on the eastern side of the Mediterranean, as a top destination. Yet the country is home to vast potential, along with the first 9a route in the Middle East.

Climber Alizée Dufraisse, Ali Baba Cave, Rodellar, Spain.

Style is a State of Mind

Alizée Dufraisse attacks her climbing weaknesses and comes away with a surprising ascent.

When you face your anti-style, or any type of climbing for that matter, success should not be measured in sends, but in becoming a better climber.

Chris Sharma Deep Water Soloing

Chris Sharma: Return to Balance

The king of deep-water soloing finds new lines to fuel his soul in Mont-Rebei, Spain.

The beauty of deep water soloing is that it’s such a free form of climbing. You’re out there exploring, and feel like a kid again, climbing up a tree. It’s very playful, spontaneous, and creative.

Alizée Dufraisse rock climbing in Siurana, Spain

Trust the Process

Tenaya athlete Alizée Dufraisse on the mental game of projecting difficult climbs.

Through the process you learn powerful life lessons: try harder, be positive, believe in yourself, never give up.

Vadim Timonov bouldering in Switzerland

Vadim Timonov in Switzerland

Bagging one 8C/V15 would be a proud feat for anyone, but four in a month? That’s just nuts.

This was the longest journey of my life. From my house in Saint Petersburg, Russia, I drove 2,500 km (1,500 miles) to Ticino, Switzerland…

Drew Ruana sets up for the crux of Sleepwalker (V16/8C+), Red Rock Canyon, Nevada. Photo: Cameron Hörst.

Sending Sleepwalker

Tenaya athlete Drew Ruana on his first V16 ascent in Red Rock Canyon, Nevada.

As the days went by, my skin degraded—getting softer, thrashed. The combination of Red Rock, Nevada’s dry desert air and abrasive sandstone grated off layer after layer until little was left.

Tenaya athlete Alex Megos on Perfecto Mundo (9b+/5.15c), Margalef, Spain. Photo: Ken Etzel.

Locked Out and Loathing in Margalef

Tenaya athlete Alex Megos on his memorable mission to climb Perfecto Mundo (9b+/5.15c).

On the way, we made a fateful pit stop at the supermarket. While Ken and I were distracted by his camera, we didn’t realize the car was broken into, and my climbing pack and camera gear were stolen.