The Finest Bouldering Problems in Bishop, California
Bishop, California: A World-Class Bouldering Destination in the Eastern Sierra
Nestled at the base of California’s Eastern Sierra, Bishop is a bouldering icon. Known for its towering granite blocs, volcanic cave problems, and wide-open desert views, Bishop delivers one of the most complete climbing experiences in the world. Whether you're ticking your first V4 or attempting cutting-edge V15s, the diversity, quality, and sheer beauty of this place make it unforgettable.
Here’s a look at some of Bishop’s most iconic and challenging lines:
🧗♂️ Iron Man Traverse (V4)
Location: Buttermilks
A must-do classic. This long, low granite traverse is one of the most famous warm-ups in the Buttermilks. Expect sustained tension, technical footwork, and plenty of chances to dial your beta. A perfect intro to Bishop’s rock and style.
🌬 High Plains Drifter (V7)
Location: Grandpa Peabody, Buttermilks
Tall, proud, and unforgettable. This sloper-heavy face climb demands precision and calm. The moves are beautiful—but the 20-foot topout adds a mental component that’s not for the faint of heart. A true highball classic.
🔥 The Mandala (V12)
Location: Grandpa Peabody, Buttermilks
Perhaps the most photographed problem in Bishop. First climbed by Chris Sharma, this line flows up the overhanging East face on slopers, pinches, and a dynamic crux. Physical, aesthetic, and iconic.
🧠 Evilution (V10–V12)
Location: Evilution Boulder, Buttermilks
One boulder. Multiple testpieces.
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Evilution Original (V10): Exits left at the lip—highball but manageable.
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Evilution Direct (V12): Goes straight up, requiring full commitment.
Tiny crimps and delicate footwork make this a serious outing. One of the biggest, boldest lines in Bishop—bring pads and strong spotters.
💥 The Swarm (V13)
Location: Happy Boulders
Sharp, steep, and hard. This volcanic prow features tiny edges, tensiony body positions, and explosive moves. Cold conditions are critical—the skin has to be right, and so does your psyche.
🧊 The Hulk (V10)
Location: Buttermilks
A beautiful granite arete with balancey moves, sharp edges, and a spicy topout. Not as physical as some testpieces, but the exposure and elegance make it unforgettable.
🧱 The Buttermilker (V13)
Location: Buttermilk Stem Boulder
One of the best roof climbs in California. This V13 powers through a steep overhang and finishes on a glassy sloper lip. Core tension, finger strength, and confidence are mandatory.
🚀 The Swarm Direct (V14)
Location: Happy Boulders
Adds harder, pumpier intro moves to The Swarm, upping the difficulty. Not for the faint-hearted—this variation is physical from start to finish.
🧟♂️ Spectre (V13)
Location: Near the Druids
Hidden and rarely repeated, this line is brutal. Sharp crimps, bad feet, and steep angles define this volcanic testpiece. It’s all about precision—and pain tolerance.
🧠 Lucid Dreaming (V15)
Location: Grandpa Peabody, Buttermilks
One of the hardest boulders on the planet. With an 8A (V11) crux involving a razor-crimp and heinous deadpoint, this climb is only for the truly elite. Few have topped it—Daniel Woods and Paul Robinson among them. A mind-and-body challenge unlike any other.
💬 Final Thoughts
Bishop combines legendary problems with a desert-meets-mountains backdrop and a welcoming climbing scene. From flowy traverses to bold highballs and brutal testpieces, it’s a proving ground for every kind of climber.
But with great stone comes great responsibility. Be sure to:
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Pack out trash
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Stay on trails
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Respect closures and wildlife
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Support orgs like the Eastern Sierra Climbers Coalition
With care and respect, Bishop will continue to be a climbing mecca for generations to come.