The climbing community is in deep mourning after the tragic death of 23-year-old climber Balin Miller, who lost his life in a fall during a climb in Yosemite.
According to witnesses and fellow climbers, Miller had just completed a demanding ascent of the Sea of Dreams on El Capitan when tragedy struck. While rappelling to clear a haul bag that had become stuck, his rope reportedly did not reach the intended location. Unaware of the shortfall, Miller rappelled off the end of his rope, leading to a fatal fall.
Photographer Tom Evans, who had documented Miller’s climb and spoken with him earlier, shared that many climbers on the wall saw the heartbreaking accident unfold. “He was a young man, highly regarded among the best climbers here,” Evans wrote. “These things happen from time to time, but the pain never passes. Rest in peace, Balin Miller.”
Miller was not only admired for his technical skills but also for his bold spirit and adventurous outlook. Known for solo ascents in Patagonia, the Canadian Rockies, Alaska, and Denali, Miller achieved climbs that only a handful in history have attempted. His résumé included the second solo ascent of the legendary Reality Bath ice climb, a solo of Denali’s demanding Slovak Direct, and the first solo choker ascent of the North Buttress of Mount Hunter.
His father, sharing the devastating news on social media, wrote: “It is with a heavy heart I have to tell you my incredible son Balin Miller died during a climbing accident today. My heart is shattered in a million pieces. I don’t know how I will get through this… I love him so much. I want to wake up from this horrible nightmare.”
Friends and fellow adventurers described Miller as fearless, creative, and inspiring. One close family friend noted, “He achieved more adventure than most anyone attempts in their whole lives. His bravery was out of this world.”
Beyond his achievements, Miller was remembered for his quirky rituals, including applying glitter to his face before difficult climbs—a reflection of his playful personality and free-spirited nature.
The climbing world has lost a rising star whose daring feats and love for the mountains inspired many. His legacy will live on through the routes he conquered and the lives he touched.
