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Catacombs Bouldering
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| Elevation: | 7,000 ft | 2,134 m |
| GPS: |
37.57264, -118.61131 Google Map · Climbing Area Map |
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| Page Views: | 81,506 total · 393/month | |
| Shared By: | Euan Cameron on Nov 18, 2007 | |
| Admins: | Aron Quiter, Euan Cameron, Mike Morley, Adam Stackhouse, Salamanizer Ski, Justin Johnsen, Vicki Schwantes |
Description
The Catacombs is a really cool place to visit. Not only does it have fine bouldering, but it is worth the trip simply to wander amongst the rock formations.
The area is perched above the Owens River Gorge. Close to the gorge there are many rock towers, that you can explore from either the top or the bottom. At the bottom you find yourself in a maze like structure, often crawling on hands and knees to make progress.
Working back from the gorge edge the towers get smaller and more spaced apart - perfect for bouldering.
The rock is good pocketed tuff, and almost all the landings are on perfect flat pumice.
Come for a day, come for an hour, it doesn't matter, it is worth the trek out here.
The area is perched above the Owens River Gorge. Close to the gorge there are many rock towers, that you can explore from either the top or the bottom. At the bottom you find yourself in a maze like structure, often crawling on hands and knees to make progress.
Working back from the gorge edge the towers get smaller and more spaced apart - perfect for bouldering.
The rock is good pocketed tuff, and almost all the landings are on perfect flat pumice.
Come for a day, come for an hour, it doesn't matter, it is worth the trek out here.
Getting There
On reaching Tom's Place on the 395 take the East turn and drive passed a few houses. After about 4 miles on this road you'll reach Crowley Lake Dam. Cross over the Dam and turning right head up the road (take care as the road narrows). Once at the top of the hill the road turns to dust. After 1.3 miles take the obvious right turn onto the 4S03. Follow this road for just over 3 miles, until you come to a steeper section of road with a switchback.
Continue on past the switchback for another 1/2 mile then take a right turn. Shortly after turning you'll see left faint left fork - stay right. Just keep staying right all the way to the Catacombs parking lot.
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Continue on past the switchback for another 1/2 mile then take a right turn. Shortly after turning you'll see left faint left fork - stay right. Just keep staying right all the way to the Catacombs parking lot.
Classic Climbing Routes at Catacombs
Mountain Project's determination of the classic, most popular, highest rated climbing routes in this area.
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