Use onX Backcountry to explore the terrain in 3D, view recent satellite imagery, and more. Now available in onX Backcountry Mobile apps! For more information see this post.
Elevation: 8,470 ft
GPS: 37.0749, -118.9819
Google Map · Climbing Area Map
Page Views: 278,334 total · 1,387/month
Shared By: Dave Daly on Sep 26, 2007
Admins: Cory B, Mike Morley, Adam Stackhouse, Salamanizer Ski, Justin Johnsen, Vicki Schwantes

Description Suggest change

Hidden well within the boundaries of the Sierra National Forest is Courtright Reservoir, the "lost sister" to the ever captivating Tuolumne Meadows. Located 2 hours east of Fresno, Courtright boasts of the same qualities as that of the terrain found in the high country of Tuolumne. Pristine, high quality granite domes torture the climbers imagination and entices any adventurer to scout the infinite possibilities. The signature landmark upon entering the Courtright area is the alluring formation, Power Dome. Teeming with a host of 5-pitch, friction scare-a-thons, Power Dome will make a marked impression in the minds and hearts of inspiring rock jocks. Scattered around the perimeter of the reservoir are a myriad of other domes and walls. Trapper, Spring, Maxon, Penstemon and Dusy are just a few domes that provide countless adventures, where traditional and sport climbs abound. Although the domes provide ample friction, smear and fine edge climbing routes, Courtright also offers several crack climbs at areas like Tiger Wall and Tiger Cage (featuring the hailed twin splitter, "This Pussy Eats You"). The Sequoia/Kings Canyon guidebook by Sally Moser, Greg Vernon and David Hickey, has dedicated over a third of the books contents to Courtright Reservoir alone!! Best of all, you won't find yourself pulling from the ticker- tape to wait your place in line for a route. The majority of the visitors that frequent Courtright are fishermen. And, of course, the final beauty of the place is that the camping is FREE and so are the spectacular views into the Goddard Divide.

This section is a summary of the domes and walls featured at Courtright. Of course, an adventuresome spirit is warranted to explore the overall area but the use of the Courtright Reservoir & Vicinity guidebook is extremely helpful. This guidebook provides ample information on the "how's, where's, what's and when's" to Courtright climbing.

The listing of domes and features are in order of the most southern feature to the most northern feature (based on moving counterclockwise around the reservoir):

Dome of the Immaculate Conception (aka Notre Dome)

The dome features sustained micro edging and several clean cracks (mostly 5.10's).

Lost Canyon Wall

Located to the east by following the Short Hair Creek, this wall features some moderate yet wildly exposed climbs. It also has its share of steep and overhanging routes (5.7 to 5.11).

Tiger Cage

Hidden to the east, just a few hundred yards off of Courtright Rd and slightly south of the reservoir, Tiger Cage has a variety of climbs: thin friction slab, steep face and cracks. Be sure to check two of its classics: 'This Pussy Eats You' (5.10b), a nice lead climb for potential crack fiends, and 'Eye Of The Tiger', a fun yet challenging 5.9/.10a. The later climb is located on the left most part of the wall, along with two other new routes to the left; 'Give That Cat A Comb (.10a) and 'Flintstone Feet' (5.8+). All are good lead warm ups for the ever classic multi-pitch 'A Little Nukey' (5.9-) on Power Dome. There are several anchors that can be accessed on top for top roping most routes.

Tiger Wall

Located next to Tiger Cage, the 75 foot orange and black overhanging Tiger Wall covers stout face and crack climbs ranging from mid 10's to burly 12's. Recommended routes: 'Hungry Tiger' (5.10b) and 'Tiger By The Tail' (5.11c)

Broken Tiers/Transformer Wall

Located down in the Helms Canyon, next to the reservoir spillway, this wall seldoms sees traffic due to loose rock. However, there are some selected routes that won't disappoint crack climbers: 'American Pie' (a 3 pitch, 5.9) and 'Knappy Sack' (a mellow 50 foot 5.10a)

Power Dome

Located in the Helms Canyon, one can spot this dome to the right from Courtright Rd. (upon entering the area). This dome is the hallmark of Courtright and rightly so. Power Dome hosts some bold friction climbs with the occasional solution pocket for psychological comfort. A word of caution: most routes are runout like the routes in Tuolumne! Rest assured, Power Dome claims several classics. 'Helms Deep' (.10c R), the first route to go up on Power Dome by Stephen McCabe and Al Swanson. 'Welcome To Courtright' (5.10a), 'A Little Nukey' (5.9-), Eve Laeger's route 'Esto Power' (5.10d) and 'Consider Me Gone', a sphincter tighting 5.10c....tough for it's grade!

Punk Rock

If your skills aren't in the highly honed catagory, Punk Dome will surely make a punk out of you! With nothing easier than 5.10, Punk Dome is located southeast from the reservoir (next to Penstemon and Dusy Domes). However, this dome has only four reported routes on it with loads of first ascent potential (ranging from 5.10-5.12). Recommended climb: 'Reach For the Sky' (5.11a) which starts at a bleached white section, on the left side of the dome.

Penstemon Dome

Some liken this dome to a classic backcountry dome with only a 15 minute approach. This dome is located east of Punk Dome. Most routes are steep friction/edging climbs or crack corners. Highlights to Penstemon: Rope-A-Dope (5.8), Shake the Flake (5.9), Song Of The Earth (5.10a) and a route unnamed, left of 'Song Of The Earth'. The guidebook shows the crux to be 5.11 but has been downrated to 5.10b (at best).

Dusy Dome

Due to its proximity to Punk and Penstemon Domes, this dome is hardly frequented by climbers. Although it is host to many challenging steep slab climbs, Dusy shouldn't be passed up. Climbs range from 5.7 to 5.11a R/X. A couple of new routes have appeared since the SeKi guide was published. Notable routes to check out:  Black Satin Slips, Neener Neener, and Little Lambs Eat Ivy.

Voyager Rock

Located directly east of the reservoir, this dome is where heros are made and cowards are sent home! Traditional by nature, Voyager features many crack routes and even a few aid lines (Doughballs On a Rampage 5.11a A2....put up by SP's very own, Kris Solem). This dome was once featured in an article of Climbing Magazine, exposing the hidden gems that Courtright features. Even Voyager's 'Ramp On' (5.6) makes for a wild challenge to the fledgling leader. Highlights to Voyager Rock: 'Smoke For Face' (5.11a, FA: Dwight Kroll) and 'By Jupiter, There Are Rings Around Uranus' (5.11d, FA: Herb Laeger and Kris Solem).

Locke Rock

Named after the late Bob Locke, Locke Dome is the most remote of all domes at Courtright. Situated past the northeastern shoreline of Courtright Reservoir, Locke Dome has only three routes upon its flanks but contains loads of route potential. If your willing to make the effort, hiking or boating, Locke will pay dividends to any backcountry climber.

Leopold Dome

Beyond the northern shore of Courtright is Leopold Dome. This dome has a wide array of climbs from beginner to expert. From crack to face, Leopold exhibits the same characteristics as Penstemon Dome. Most of the moderate climbs are well bolted and range from 5.7 to 5.8+. Don't miss some of the stiffer rated climbs such as 'Burnt Beyond Recognition' (5.10c), a total calf incinerator. Highlights to Leopold: 'Piss Flaps' (5.8+) and 'Sinners In The Hands Of An Angry God' (5.10b).

Trapper Dome

If you haven't got your fill of sport climbs then Trapper Dome is where you want to go for "clip and go" routes. This dome is located on the western side of Courtright, left of the Trapper Springs Campground Rd. Within 10 minutes, you'll be cranking up high quality granite with generous amounts of fixed protection along the way. Even Trapper Dome's easiest route, Drill Instructor (5.4, 110 ft) covers 10 bolts to a chained belay! But as things stiffen up around its southwestern wall, you'll be praying for more, especially on routes like the 'Carson-Kodas Arete' (a super wild and exposed 5.11c). Highlights to Trapper Dome: 'I Wouldn't Wanna Be Like You' (5.10d/5.11b) , 'Zodiac Mind Warp' (5.10d) and 'Rhythm Divine' (5.10d), 'Orgasm Addict (.10+).....all rating 4-star glory! Be sure to check out the backside of Trapper Dome's north side, known as The Sex Wall. This area features excellent bolted slab routes ranging from 5.8 to 5.10d. Goes into the shade late in the afternoon. Amazing views of the reservoir and beyond!

Getting There Suggest change

Most people from the Bay area or Los Angeles, drive to Fresno via Hwy 99 South or North, respectively. Once in the Fresno city limits, take Hwy 180 East toward Kings Canyon. Stay on the 180 until the exit appears for Hwy 168 East. Exit onto Hwy 168 and travel its length to the town of Shaver Lake (30 miles), passing the small town of Prather along the way. After Prather, Hwy 168 will become a 4-lane road heading up a moderately steep grade. The highway will return to a 2-lane road at the top of the grade before reaching the mountain town of Shaver Lake (another 4 miles, once the highway returns to 2-lanes again). Just inside the town limits of Shaver Lake, turn right onto Dinkey Creek Rd. Follow this for approximately 11 miles to almost the roads end. Prior to the road ending (approx. 1/4 mile) is McKinley Grove Rd. Turn right onto McKinley Grove Rd and over the bridge that crosses Dinkey Creek. Follow McKinley Grove Rd. for approximately 13 miles till one reaches a signed intersection for Courtright and Wishon Reservoirs (this sign appears after travelling on the only mile long straight section of McKinley Grove Rd!). Turn left for 'Courtright Reservoir' and follow this single lane access road for approximately 8 miles to the reservoir. You'll know you're there when you get your first amazing eyeful of Power Dome on the right side, prior to arriving at the shore side of the reservoir. Total approximate distance travelled from Fresno is 100 miles and takes roughly 2 and half hours to complete.....but 'oh-so' worth it!

Camping

Suggest change
Although a fire permit is required for any campfire constructed in the national forest, the remaining amenities are FREE! All fire permits can be acquired at the Sierra National Forest HQ building, located in Prather along the 168.

There are also paid campsites available in Courtright, sponsored and maintained by PG&E. The camping fee per site is $25.00 per night. The campsite are provided with picnic tables, fire pits, water and pit toilets. There are two sites: Voyager Rock campground (14 campsites, tents only) is located on the southeast shoreline of the reservoir while Trapper Spings campground is located near the western shoreline, 2.2 miles to the north (following the single lane road along the west side of the reservoir). This campground has a total of 75 tents sites and 45 trailer sites. This campground is within stone's throw distance to both Spring Dome (aka Marmot Dome) and Trapper Dome.

For reservations to both campgrounds, call 877-444-6777 or TDD 877-833-6777.

As for other camping, respect the areas that are signed as "No Camping" areas. But for the most part, camping is FREE. Let's do our part as a climbing community and keep it that way! Respect all national forest rangers and PG&E employees.

When To Climb

Suggest change
The best time of the year to climb at Courtright is from late spring to late fall. Generally, PG&E maintains the access gate to Courtright (locate at the beginning part of the Courtright Rd). This gate usually opens on Memorial Day weekend or on a day that PG&E can access Courtright if the snow year was heavy. Closure depends on when the first good snow comes. The usual rule of thumb is follow the same closures observed as that of Tioga Road (Hwy 120). It will be PG&E's call when they will close the gate for the season. Check for gate conditions with the Sierra National Forest HQ in Prather (559) 855-5360 (press "0" for immediate transfer to a ranger). For all practical purposes, DO NOT call PG&E directly! The management with PG&E, at Wishon Reservoir, work hand in hand with the forest service and keep the national forest informed of all company activities, road closures and/or miscellanous information needed for recreationalists and visitors.

Daytime temps range from the low 60's to the low 80's, depending on the time of the year. Nightime temps usually range from the high 30's to the upper 50's.
Thunderstorms have been known to blanket the area over the summer. But for the most part, blue skies and wide open vistas prevail.

234 Total Climbs

Route Finder - Best Climbs for YOU!

Location: Courtright Reservoir Change
Type:  to 
Quality:
Pitches:
Sort by:   then:
 

Classic Climbing Routes at Courtright Reservoir

Mountain Project's determination of the classic, most popular, highest rated climbing routes in this area.
5.9 5c 17 VI 17 HVS 5a
 63
A Little Nukey
Trad, Alpine 5 pitches
5.9 5c 17 VI 17 HVS 5a
 30
Welcome to Courtright
Trad, Alpine 5 pitches
5.10a 6a 18 VI+ 18 E1 5a
 8
Song of the Earth
Trad, Alpine 4 pitches
5.10b 6a+ 19 VII- 19 E2 5b
 33
Hannaramic
Sport, Alpine 6 pitches
5.10b 6a+ 19 VII- 19 E2 5b
 5
C'mon Now
Trad, Alpine 4 pitches
5.10c 6b 20 VII 20 E2 5b
 21
Nosferatu
Trad, Alpine
5.10c 6b 20 VII 20 E2 5b
 18
Smegmathon
Trad, Alpine 5 pitches
5.10c 6b 20 VII 20 E2 5b
 8
Jigsaw
Trad, Alpine
5.10d 6b+ 21 VII+ 21 E3 5b
 5
Battle Apple
Trad, Alpine 4 pitches
5.10d 6b+ 21 VII+ 21 E3 5b R
 7
Esto Power
Trad, Alpine 5 pitches
5.11a 6c 22 VII+ 22 E3 5c
 6
Powerline
Trad, Alpine 4 pitches
5.11b 6c 23 VIII- 23 E3 5c R
 7
Carson-Kodas Arete
Trad, Alpine 2 pitches
5.11b 6c 23 VIII- 23 E3 5c
 11
Puss N Boots
Trad, Alpine
5.11c 6c+ 24 VIII- 24 E4 6a
 14
Tiger by the Tail
Trad, Alpine
5.12c 7b+ 27 IX- 27 E6 6b
 7
Smiladon
Sport, TR, Alpine
Route Name Location Star Rating Difficulty Date
A Little Nukey Power Dome > W Face
 63
5.9 5c 17 VI 17 HVS 5a Trad, Alpine 5 pitches
Welcome to Courtright Power Dome > W Face
 30
5.9 5c 17 VI 17 HVS 5a Trad, Alpine 5 pitches
Song of the Earth Penstemon Dome > Penstemon Dome (W Face)
 8
5.10a 6a 18 VI+ 18 E1 5a Trad, Alpine 4 pitches
Hannaramic Power Dome > W Face
 33
5.10b 6a+ 19 VII- 19 E2 5b Sport, Alpine 6 pitches
C'mon Now Power Dome > E Face
 5
5.10b 6a+ 19 VII- 19 E2 5b Trad, Alpine 4 pitches
Nosferatu Trapper Dome > S Face > Upper Tier
 21
5.10c 6b 20 VII 20 E2 5b Trad, Alpine
Smegmathon Power Dome > W Face
 18
5.10c 6b 20 VII 20 E2 5b Trad, Alpine 5 pitches
Jigsaw Tiger Cage
 8
5.10c 6b 20 VII 20 E2 5b Trad, Alpine
Battle Apple Voyager Rock
 5
5.10d 6b+ 21 VII+ 21 E3 5b Trad, Alpine 4 pitches
Esto Power Power Dome > W Face
 7
5.10d 6b+ 21 VII+ 21 E3 5b R Trad, Alpine 5 pitches
Powerline Power Dome > W Face
 6
5.11a 6c 22 VII+ 22 E3 5c Trad, Alpine 4 pitches
Carson-Kodas Arete Trapper Dome > S Face > Upper Tier
 7
5.11b 6c 23 VIII- 23 E3 5c R Trad, Alpine 2 pitches
Puss N Boots Tiger Wall
 11
5.11b 6c 23 VIII- 23 E3 5c Trad, Alpine
Tiger by the Tail Tiger Wall
 14
5.11c 6c+ 24 VIII- 24 E4 6a Trad, Alpine
Smiladon Tiger Wall
 7
5.12c 7b+ 27 IX- 27 E6 6b Sport, TR, Alpine
More Classic Climbs in Courtright Reservoir »

Weather Averages

High
 
Low
 
Precip
 
Days w Precip
 
Prime Climbing Season
J F M A M J J A S O N D
J F M A M J J A S O N D

Photos

loading