Owens River Gorge

The Owens River Gorge is located between Bishop and Mammoth Lakes California. The volcanic rock walls of the gorge (known as Bishop Tuff) were formed about 750,000 years ago thanks to the eruption of the Long Valley Caldera. The Owens River has been at work ever since, cutting the deep gorge through the rock walls. Today the gorge is top destination for climbing, as well as fishing (fly and lure fishing only) and hiking.

The gorge offers an abundance of sport climbing routes (over 300) ranging from 5.6 to 5.13. Routes feature edges, pockets, cracks and even a few chimneys.

The Owens River Gorge can be divided into three sections. The Lower Gorge sees less traffic and has an easier approach and a fair selection of routes. The Central Gorge, which is most popular, offers a lot of great routes, most ranging from 5.8-5.11. And the Upper Gorge, which is narrower and more winding than the lower sections offers some moderate routes as well as a large collection of 5.11 and 5.12 climbing.