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Bitterbrush Campground

California > Eastern Sierra > Bishop Area

Description

The Bitterbrush climbing area is the series of obvious peaks behind Bitterbrush campground. The quartz monzonite behind this Forest Service campground is sharp like the Buttermilks but it's mostly unclimbed, so expect much more choss. Test larger boulders before trusting your entire weight to them and wear a helmet; rockfall is the norm. There's virtually no bolted protection and cracks range from finger to chimney so an extensive rack and some bail gear is a must.

Getting There

Head west from downtown Bishop on W. Line Street/Highway 168. Drive approximately 12 miles into the mountains and the entrance to Bitterbrush Campground will be on the left. The approach is just as hard as some of the climbing. It requires crossing Bishop Creek and 3rd and 4th class terrain up 500 vertical feet to the face. The easiest river crossing is at the far south-west corner of the campsite where an obvious trail goes down to the creek. Hop across various rocks and boulders and hope that you don't end up tangled in a thorn bush or cactus when making the final leap to the other side. There is no established trail leading up to the face but switchbacking is preferred to limit erosion.

Routes from Left to Right

5.1 2 6 II 7 MD 2a
 3
There's A Thorn In My Ass
Trad
Route Name Location Star Rating Difficulty Date
There's A Thorn In My Ass
 3
5.1 2 6 II 7 MD 2a Trad

Photos [Hide ALL Photos]

The obvious bulge behind Bitterbrush Campground.
[Hide Photo] The obvious bulge behind Bitterbrush Campground.