Tommy Caldwell is widely regarded as one of the most accomplished and visionary rock climbers of his generation. Renowned for his pioneering ascents and relentless pursuit of pushing the boundaries of human potential, Caldwell has left an indelible mark on the world of climbing.
In 2015, Caldwell, alongside climbing partner Kevin Jorgeson, completed the first free ascent of the Dawn Wall on Yosemite’s El Capitan—a feat that captivated the world and was later chronicled in the acclaimed documentary The Dawn Wall. This 19-day ascent was hailed by President Barack Obama as a testament to the idea that “anything is possible.”
Caldwell’s climbing résumé includes numerous first ascents and speed records, such as the Fitz Traverse in Patagonia and the Nose of El Capitan in under two hours with Alex Honnold. His resilience was further demonstrated following a life-altering accident in which he severed his index finger, only to return stronger and more determined.
In 2024, Caldwell reunited with Honnold for an ambitious expedition documented in National Geographic’s The Devil’s Climb. The duo embarked on a 2,600-mile journey by bike, sailboat, and foot from Colorado to Alaska, culminating in the first single-day traverse of all five peaks of the Devil’s Thumb massif—a 9,000-foot granite monolith in the Stikine Icecap region.
Beyond his climbing achievements, Caldwell is a passionate environmental advocate. He actively works to protect natural spaces and promote sustainable practices, often speaking on the importance of conservation and climate action. His memoir, The Push: A Climber’s Journey of Endurance, Risk, and Going Beyond Limits, offers an introspective look into his life, challenges, and the philosophies that drive him.
