Bear Crag

Description 

Bear Crag is the best summer, "steep" crag on the eastside. The rock quality isn't the best, but it is fun to climb on. Usually the bad rock is limited to the first few meters of the climb. The climbing is mostly steep jughauling on blocky, volcanic rock. The climbs are well protected with bolts. Logistically this cliff is somewhat of a nightmare. It is located inside the Reds Meadow area of the Ansel Adams Wilderness. What this means is that you must get up early (gate closes at 7am) to drive in or you will have to take the shuttle. There is also a $7 per day use fee. If you get up early enough and make it to the parking area, you're then faced with a confusing hike on faint trails. If you actually make it to the crag, you'll probably be rewarded with solitude.

Getting There 

Take highway 203 past the Mammoth Ski Area, through the pay gate and down to the Reds Meadow, and the Rainbow Falls Trailhead parking. Start down the Rainbow Falls trail. After a (dry) streambed, cut left on a very faint path that connects to the stock trail. Follow the stock trail until it crosses the creek. Take another faint trail on the left, through the burnt out area and up to the crag on the left. Actually, get Marty Lewis' Mammoth Area Rock Climbs guide or you will probably be wondering aimlessly for days through the charred forest.

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