What’s It Like to Climb a Skyscraper?

New York Times - WorldCenter-LeftEN 5 min read 100% complete by John YoonJanuary 23, 2026 at 11:08 AM

AI Summary

long article 5 min

Skyscraper climbing is a rare and often illegal pursuit with extreme physical and mental demands. The article highlights Alex Honnold's upcoming free solo climb of Taipei 101 in Taiwan, which will be livestreamed on Netflix, bringing unprecedented attention to the sport. It features insights from experienced climbers like Alain Robert, known for scaling around 200 buildings, and Dan Goodwin, who climbed Toronto's CN Tower in 1986. These climbers emphasize the intense focus required and the constant risk of death. The article notes the difference between skyscraper climbing and traditional rock climbing, highlighting the unique challenges and legal ramifications involved.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

Chicago 30% Yosemite National Park 30% Toronto 40% Dubai 40% John Hancock Center 40% Taiwan 50% CN Tower 60% Burj Khalifa 60% Taipei 101 70% Dan Goodwin ×270% Alex Honnold ×280% Alain Robert ×390%

Keywords

skyscraper climbing 100% free solo climbing 80% mental and physical demands 70% alain robert 60% alex honnold 60% dan goodwin 50% illegal activity 50% cn tower 40% taipei 101 40%