The Finest Bouldering Problems in Bishop, California

Bishop, California: A World-Class Bouldering Destination in the Eastern Sierra

Bishop, California, sits at the edge of the Eastern Sierra and is known worldwide as one of the best places to go bouldering. With its mix of solid granite and volcanic rock, wide-open desert views, and legendary climbs, Bishop offers something for everyone—from beginners learning the ropes to pros pushing their limits. Here’s a guide to some of the most famous and challenging boulder problems in the area.

Iron Man Traverse (V4)

Start your Bishop trip with Iron Man Traverse, a classic V4 in the Buttermilks. This long, low traverse runs across a beautiful granite boulder and requires balance, body tension, and precise movement. It’s a favorite for warming up or testing your technique without leaving the ground.

High Plains Drifter (V7)

Set high on the Grandpa Peabody boulder, High Plains Drifter is a tall V7 that’s all about slopers and confidence. The granite face leans just enough to keep the pressure on, and the climb demands steady footwork and body control. Topping out 20 feet off the ground makes it a true highball classic.

The Mandala (V12)

Few boulders are as well-known as The Mandala. This proud V12 line on the East Side of Grandpa Peabody was first climbed by Chris Sharma and has since become one of the most repeated hard problems in the world. With slopers, pinches, and a deadpoint crux, it’s pure, powerful movement on perfect rock.

Evilution (V10–V12)

Evilution is a tall and serious line on the Evilution Boulder. There are a few versions:

• Evilution Original (V10) escapes left at the top.

• Evilution Direct (V12) goes straight up and is much bolder.

Small crimps and technical footwork make this climb both mentally and physically demanding. This is one of the biggest highballs in Bishop, so bring lots of pads and solid spotters.

The Swarm (V13)

Located in the Happy Boulders, The Swarm climbs steep volcanic rock with small, sharp holds. It’s a V13 that demands explosive strength, tight body tension, and exact footwork. Not only is it hard—conditions matter too. Cold temps and dry skin are key.

The Hulk (V10)

The Hulk is a tall, clean V10 in the Buttermilks. It follows a beautiful arete with a mix of crimps and smears, all leading to a tricky topout. It's not quite as physical as other lines on this list, but the height and balance moves make it unforgettable.

The Buttermilker (V13)

One of the area’s most famous roof climbs, The Buttermilker powers out a steep ceiling before finishing on a sloping lip. It’s a testpiece for climbers with strong fingers, solid core tension, and the ability to hold it together when it counts. The problem lives on the tall Buttermilk Stem Boulder.

The Swarm Direct (V14)

The Swarm Direct adds a harder start to the regular Swarm, bumping the grade to V14. The extra moves at the beginning are tough and pumpy, making this variation even more demanding.

Spectre (V13)

Hidden near the Druids area, Spectre climbs a dark volcanic roof using tiny crimps and poor feet. It’s sharp, steep, and requires a deep bag of beta tricks. This one doesn’t see many sends, but those who do it never forget it.

Lucid Dreaming (V15)

Lucid Dreaming is one of the hardest boulder problems in the world. Sitting on the tall Grandpa Peabody boulder, it features an 8A (V11) crux move off a razor-sharp crimp. It’s rarely repeated and takes next-level finger strength, mental focus, and perfect conditions to pull off. A true test of the elite.

Final Thoughts

Bishop offers a unique mix of powerful climbs, tall boulders, and beautiful desert scenery. It’s a place where you can grow as a climber and connect with a strong community. Whether you’re chasing your first V4 or projecting V14, Bishop has a climb that will inspire you.

Just remember: pack out your trash, respect local rules and closures, and give back to the land. Groups like the Eastern Sierra Climbers Coalition work hard to keep these areas open and healthy for future generations.