There isn't much beauty in this desert canyon besides a few trees, some nettles and great sport climbing.
There are over 700 routes here, and lots more on the way. Leave the rack behind and clip lots of bolts.
The only downer here is the open cold-shuts at the top of each route. While nice to just toss a loop of rope into at the top, they're quick to wear through, due to constant lowering.
Lots of free camping nearby, with Horton creek and Pinion Pine being my favorites.
The hot springs are amazing as well, with the green church area to the north and Keough to the south.
Also, don't miss the Happy Boulders just north of Bishop. For a guide, buy the locally stapled one by Marty Lewis and tell Randy Vogel to go back where he came from.
Climbing here with my brother Chris and friend Rain was a great way to start a long solo trip, with some familiar faces. I had also climbed here the year before, but only for a weekend.
Once again, my hardest onsight was .11c, but I felt good and wasn't injured - yet.
After ten days of fairly nice weather for late April, it was time to head into the unknown.
My next stop was Red Rocks, near Las Vegas, Nevada.