Buttermilk Country Rock Climbing

Buttermilk Country is a world-class classic bouldering destination spread out in the high desert below the Eastern Sierra Nevada and right outside of Bishop. There have been numerous groundbreaking ascents over the years on some of the most aesthetic routes anywhere. The giant granitic quartz monzonite boulders blanket the desert, giving you vast open views of the Owens River Valley and nearby Basin Mountain. There is free dispersed camping here, though there are no amenities. In order to help keep folks from unnecessarily hiking onto the fragile desert re-vegetation areas, volunteers have lined the trails with rocks. Please do you part and be mindful of staying on the trail.

There are a lot of big highball problems here, and the routes made of crimps, slopers, and edges make for a finger cutting good time. The landings are fairly safe and flat for the most part, though the top outs are usually above 15 to 20 feet. Be sure to bring enough pads to make a soft landing. Always scout out your down climbs, because they can sometimes be half the battle. Occasionally the Buttermilks get crowded during the mild spring and fall seasons, so be sure to start early to get on the routes you want to project. There is a nice, friendly atmosphere here, as everyone is out enjoying climbing at such a beautiful place. Make friends, share pads, spots, beta, and have fun bouldering at the Buttermilks.