Patterson Left Rock Climbing
Elevation: | 5,787 ft | 1,764 m |
GPS: |
36.92802, -119.09471 Google Map · Climbing Area Map |
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Page Views: | 21,095 total · 260/month | |
Shared By: | Brian Prince on May 15, 2018 · Updates | |
Admins: | Cory B, Mike Morley, Adam Stackhouse, Salamanizer Ski, Justin Johnsen, Vicki Schwantes |
Description
The tall part of the bluff. One of a kind approach, great rock, lots of sun, big routes... and just an awesome piece of granite. This 1,000-foot-plus cliff is approached by parking literally on top of the wall, finding the top of your chosen route (which, admittedly, can be surprisingly frustrating!), and rappelling. If you were unable to climb back out, walking up to your car by way of the major gully that splits the main and back walls has been done, but I can't imagine it's very fun, and it may require some actual climbing.. something to absolutely consider
When to climb - the cliff faces southwest and is at a low elevation, meaning it can get hot. Unfortunately, Ross Crossing Road is closed generally from December 1st to around May 1st, depending on snow. Dave Nettle proposed that the climbing is reasonable at Patterson if the temps in Fresno don't go too high above 90. This means the climbing season is basically May, October, and November. Maybe more depending on weather, Ross Crossing, and/or your heat tolerance.
Getting There
From above:
Drive to the town of Shaver Lake on highway 168. As for Courtright and Wishon Reservoir, turn right on Dinkey Creek Road and drive 12 miles almost to its end (you'll pass the intersection with the other side of Ross Crossing Road, but it's better to continue). Take a right on Mckinley Grove Road and drive 9 miles.
Take a right on Ross Crossing road (signed; GPS 36.932097, -119.092608) and drive a little over 10 miles. Be on the lookout for a spur road off to the left that is easy to miss. There's a few in the area so it can be confusing. If you go 11 miles, turn around and go back. Drive a few hundred yards and you're on top of the bluff and can look down at Balch Camp. An incredible camp spot (GPS 36.930742, -119.095096). Ross Crossing Road is semi paved and is doable in 2wd low clearance if you go slow.
From below:
Doable, but good luck
Classic Climbing Routes at Patterson Left
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