On April 13, 2026, a remarkable achievement unfolded in the Sierra Nevada of California as Cody Townsend, Tommy Caldwell, and Bjarne Salén completed the first-ever winter ski traverse of Norman’s 13. This traverse links 13 of the highest peaks in California, a feat that had long been a dream for many in the mountaineering community. The team set out to conquer this challenge, inspired by Kilian Jornet’s summer route, which had previously laid the groundwork for such an epic endeavor.
The traverse covers over 160 kilometers (101 miles) and involves an astounding elevation gain of around 12,000 meters (39,000 feet). The peaks included in this traverse are Mount Whitney, Mount Williamson, North Palisade, Starlight Peak, Mount Sill, Polemonium Peak, Mount Russell, Split Mountain, Mount Langley, Mount Tyndall, Mount Muir, Middle Palisade, and Thunderbolt Peak. Each of these peaks presents its own unique challenges, and the team faced extreme conditions throughout their journey, ranging from nearly perfect weather to inconsistent and harsh elements.
As the team embarked on their final day, they were met with the most demanding conditions yet, requiring 24 hours of skiing and climbing over technical terrain. Cody Townsend reflected on the experience, stating, “The pain from all the movement felt ‘like being stabbed… with thousands of hot needles.'” This vivid description underscores the physical toll such an undertaking can impose on even the most seasoned athletes.
Despite the challenges, the team successfully completed the traverse, marking a significant milestone in the world of skiing and mountaineering. The current fastest time for Norman’s 13 was set by Kilian Jornet in September 2025, clocking in at two days, 8 hours, and 11 minutes. This recent achievement by Townsend, Caldwell, and Salén not only adds to the lore of the Sierra Nevada but also raises the bar for future attempts at this grueling traverse.
In the lead-up to their historic completion, Cody Townsend noted, “Seeing the headlines and stories made me dive deeper into the route itself.” This sentiment reflects the growing interest in epic challenges within the outdoor community, as more athletes seek to push the boundaries of what is possible in extreme conditions. Tommy Caldwell, known for his penchant for difficult climbs, humorously remarked, “Seems to be that people call me when they want to do painful things… which I love.” This highlights the camaraderie and shared passion among climbers and skiers who thrive on such intense experiences.
The name Norman’s 13 pays tribute to Norman Clyde, a legendary mountaineer whose legacy continues to inspire adventurers today. The successful completion of this winter traverse not only honors Clyde’s contributions to the sport but also serves as a testament to the enduring spirit of exploration and adventure that defines mountaineering.
As the dust settles on this epic achievement, the implications for the mountaineering community are profound. It showcases the potential for winter traverses in the Sierra Nevada and may inspire a new wave of athletes to take on similar challenges. The successful completion of Norman’s 13 in winter conditions opens the door for further exploration and adventure in one of California’s most breathtaking landscapes.
