Climbing Influencer Dies Live-Streaming El Capitan Ascent as Horrified Fans Watch Fall

Climbing influencer Balin Miller died Wednesday after falling from Yosemite’s El Capitan while livestreaming his ascent to thousands of viewers on TikTok.

Miller, a 23 year old who had built a reputation as one of the country’s most daring climbers, was attempting a solo rope climb up the 3,000-foot granite wall when he slipped on Wednesday.

His mother, Jeanine Girard-Moorman, confirmed his death to the Associated Press.

The tragedy unfolded as fans followed his progress in real time but watched in horror as he fell while reportedly attempting to recover gear snagged on the rock face.

The National Park Service confirmed it is investigating, noting that “park rangers and emergency personnel responded immediately.”

Miller, who grew up in Alaska, had in recent months completed some of the world’s most difficult climbs, including the Slovak Direct route on Denali and a rare ascent in the Canadian Rockies. His exploits earned him sponsorships and a loyal following online, where he was nicknamed “orange tent guy” for his striking cliffside camps.

“He’s been climbing since he was a young boy,” his mother said. “His heart and soul was truly to just climb. He loved to climb and it was never about money and fame.”