Alex Honnold is widely known for pushing the limits of what is possible in free solo climbing, capturing global attention with fearless ascents that demand pinpoint precision. When people ask about Alex Honnold what time, they are often referring to the exact start time of his iconic climbs or how long specific routes took to complete, which can vary significantly depending on the project.
Below you will find a structured overview of key moments, media windows, and climbing projects tied to his schedule, followed by deeper dives into specific interests. All information is presented in a concise, scannable format designed for quick reference.
Key Moments and Scheduled Events
| Date | Event | Location | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| June 3, 2017 | First free ascent of El Sendero Luminoso | El Potrero Chico, Mexico | 9 hours |
| June 3, 2017 | Start time of El Sendero Luminoso ascent | El Potrero Chico, Mexico | Approximately 7:00 AM local time |
| June 4, 2012 | First ascent of the Dawn Wall (with Tommy Caldwell) | Yosemite National Park, USA | 12 days (project) |
| TBD | Documentary screenings and speaking engagements | Global | Varies by venue |
Dawn Wall and Big Wall Context
Collaborative vs Solo Objectives
The Dawn Wall on El Capitan was a multi-day project conducted with Tommy Caldwell, involving fixed lines, gear placement, and detailed route finding. Unlike his free solo endeavors, big wall work operates on a different timeline, often measured in days rather than minutes, and requires extended support teams.
Daily Start Patterns on Big Walls
Typical days on large walls begin well before sunrise to maximize daylight, with teams committing to sustained effort over multiple pitches. This structured rhythm contrasts with the immediate decision making required for solo routes where there is no partner to manage risk in real time.
Free Solo Focus and Start Times
Typical Morning Windows
For many free solo objectives, Alex Honnold prefers early starts around sunrise or slightly after, when rock temperature is stable and conditions are less likely to shift unexpectedly. Starting early also reduces exposure to afternoon winds and changing light that can affect grip and concentration.
Precision Timing in Key Ascents
Specific projects like the first free ascent of El Sendero Luminoso began around 7:00 AM, allowing several hours of daylight to complete challenging sections without rushing. This timing reflects a balance between weather predictability and energy management, critical for maintaining focus on thin edges and delicate footwork.
Media Coverage and Public Interest
Documentary Release Schedule
The release of Free Solo reshaped public understanding of his preparation, highlighting months of rehearsal, psychological work, and meticulous planning. Viewers often focus on the climactic moment at the top, yet the disciplined routine leading up to that point defines his approach to timing and risk.
Live Stream and Event Scheduling
When major attempts are streamed live, organizers coordinate start times to align with global audiences while respecting local light conditions. This can mean adjusting departure times so that critical sections occur under optimal lighting for both performance and broadcast clarity.
Training, Logistics, and Long-Term Planning
- Early starts help align physical peak performance with optimal environmental conditions.
- Long-term projects, such as big wall collaborations, rely on detailed scheduling to coordinate support teams and gear caches.
- Media commitments and documentary timelines influence when certain climbs are attempted or released to the public.
- Rehearsal and visualization are central to refining the exact sequence of moves on specific problems.
- Risk assessment includes weather windows, rock quality, and personal readiness, all of which factor into timing decisions.
FAQ
Reader questions
What time did Alex Honnold start his El Sendero Luminoso ascent?
He began the climb around 7:00 AM local time on June 3, 2017.
How long did it take to free solo El Sendero Luminoso?
The ascent took approximately 9 hours from start to finish.
What time of day does Alex Honnold usually start free soloing? He typically starts early in the morning, near sunrise, to benefit from stable rock temperature and consistent light. Did the Dawn Wall involve a specific start time each day?
On the Dawn Wall, teams began well before sunrise to maximize available daylight for climbing and safety, rather than adhering to a single precise start time.