
Owens River Gorge
A world-class sport climbing mecca set in a dramatic desert canyon, offering stunning vistas and incredible photography opportunities.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Ideal climbing temps

Owens River Gorge
Best Time
Ideal climbing temps
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A world-class sport climbing mecca set in a dramatic desert canyon, offering stunning vistas and incredible photography opportunities.
"My favorite sport climbing area in California. Much more crowded than I could recall, but still worth it"

🎯 Check for Closures
Annual high water releases can close the gorge. Always verify access before your trip. :information_source:
🧗♀️ Bring Climbing Gear
Essential for the numerous bolted sport climbing routes. Guidebooks are highly recommended for route selection.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

World-Class Sport Climbing
Various crags throughout the gorge
Experience challenging bolted routes with stunning canyon views. A must-visit for any serious rock climber.

Scenic Canyon Vistas
Overlooks and trails
Enjoy breathtaking views of the rugged canyon and the Owens River below. Perfect for photography and nature appreciation.

Moonrise and Moonset Photography
Accessible viewpoints
Capture dramatic celestial events over the unique landscape. A photographer's dream, especially during winter evenings.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Best Time for Climbing
Access & Conditions
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Check for Closures
Annual high water releases can close the gorge. Always verify access before your trip. :information_source:
🧗♀️ Bring Climbing Gear
Essential for the numerous bolted sport climbing routes. Guidebooks are highly recommended for route selection.
📸 Pack Your Camera
Stunning landscapes and celestial events make for incredible photo opportunities.
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
Trails can be uneven. Comfortable hiking shoes are a must for exploring the gorge. :athletic_shoe:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Check for Closures
Annual high water releases can close the gorge. Always verify access before your trip. :information_source:
🧗♀️ Bring Climbing Gear
Essential for the numerous bolted sport climbing routes. Guidebooks are highly recommended for route selection.
📸 Pack Your Camera
Stunning landscapes and celestial events make for incredible photo opportunities.
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
Trails can be uneven. Comfortable hiking shoes are a must for exploring the gorge. :athletic_shoe:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Owens River Gorge is celebrated as a premier sport climbing destination with breathtaking canyon scenery, attracting photographers for its dramatic landscapes and celestial events. While many praise its climbing quality and photographic potential, some visitors have found it difficult to locate and noted increasing crowds.
"This place is terrible. Don't waste your time."
Amy Overs
"Tried to follow the signs, but never actually found this place. Or if we did it wasn't of particularly interesting"
Bruce Dobrin
"Easy to access and great place to shoot moonrise and moonset on a wintery evening/morning. My first time there."
Kamala Venkatesh
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Owens River Gorge is located off Highway 395 in Eastern California. Access points for climbing areas are typically well-marked from the highway. Many climbers use the Owens River Gorge Climbing Guidebook to navigate to specific crags.
Yes, most of the main climbing areas are accessible by car, though some may require driving on unpaved roads. Always check road conditions, especially after inclement weather.
The most recommended way to find climbing routes is by using a dedicated climbing guidebook for the area, such as the Owens River Gorge Climbing Guidebook. Online resources and local climbers can also offer insights.
Specific directions vary depending on the crag. It's best to consult a climbing guidebook or online climbing forums for detailed access information for each climbing zone within the gorge.
Owens River Gorge is situated in the Eastern Sierra Nevada region of California, north of Bishop and south of Mammoth Lakes, along Highway 395.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Generally, no permit is required for sport climbing in Owens River Gorge. However, it's always wise to check with local land management agencies for any specific regulations or seasonal restrictions.
There are typically no entrance fees for accessing Owens River Gorge for recreational activities like climbing or sightseeing.
Owens River Gorge is an outdoor natural area and is generally accessible year-round during daylight hours. However, specific climbing areas might have seasonal closures.
Climbing access is on a first-come, first-served basis. There's no need to book in advance, but be aware that popular areas can get crowded.
Yes, the gorge can experience seasonal closures due to high water releases from LADWP, typically in late summer. Always check for these closures before visiting.
🎫 🧗♀️ Onsite Experience
Owens River Gorge is renowned for its excellent sport climbing routes, featuring a variety of grades and styles. There are also some trad and bouldering opportunities.
It can get quite crowded, especially on weekends and during peak climbing seasons. Some reviewers noted it was more crowded than they recalled.
Wear comfortable athletic clothing suitable for climbing. Sturdy hiking shoes are recommended for approaching routes, and climbing shoes are essential for climbing.
Facilities are minimal. It's advisable to bring your own water and pack out all trash. Some trailheads might have basic pit toilets.
While there are routes for all levels, some areas are more challenging. Beginners should consider going with experienced climbers or consulting a guidebook for easier routes.
📸 📸 Photography
The overlooks along Highway 395 offer stunning panoramic views. For unique shots, consider the river itself or the dramatic rock formations. Moonrise and moonset photography is particularly popular in winter.
Landscape photography is very popular, capturing the vastness of the Eastern Sierra. Rock climbing action shots are also common, as are astrophotography and celestial event captures like moonrises.
Golden hour (sunrise and sunset) provides beautiful light for landscapes. Midday can be harsh, but is good for climbing action shots. Winter evenings are ideal for moon photography.
A wide-angle lens is great for landscapes. For climbing shots, a telephoto lens can be useful. A tripod is highly recommended for low-light conditions and long exposures.
While dedicated photography tours might be rare, local guides or photography groups may offer excursions. It's best to research local tour operators or photography clubs in the Bishop area.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
For families with older, adventurous children interested in climbing, the gorge offers routes for various skill levels. However, it's crucial to prioritize safety and ensure adequate supervision. Consulting a climbing guide or experienced local can help identify beginner-friendly areas and ensure a safe experience.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Don't miss the chance to capture moonrises and moonsets, a particularly popular activity during winter. The clear skies of the Eastern Sierra are ideal for astrophotography. Bring a tripod and experiment with long exposures to capture the magic of the night sky over the gorge.
🧗♀️ Dedicated Climbers
Be aware of potential seasonal closures due to water releases, which can impact access during late summer. Spring and fall offer the most pleasant climbing temperatures, while summer can be extremely hot. Arrive early on weekends to secure your preferred climbing spots, as the gorge can get quite busy.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Owens River Gorge Climbing Scene
When planning a climbing trip, it's essential to have a comprehensive climbing guidebook for the area. These guidebooks provide detailed information on route names, grades, protection, and access. Popular areas within the gorge include the 'Home Wall,' 'The Zoo,' and 'The Crypt.' It's also worth noting that some climbers have experienced the gorge being more crowded than in previous years, so arriving early or visiting on weekdays can enhance the experience.
Beyond the climbing itself, the stunning desert landscape of the Eastern Sierra provides a dramatic backdrop. The sheer scale of the gorge and the surrounding mountains offer a truly immersive outdoor experience. Remember to practice Leave No Trace principles to help preserve this beautiful climbing area for future generations.
Photography Opportunities
A unique photographic draw is the opportunity to capture moonrises and moonsets over the gorge, especially during winter evenings. The clear desert skies provide excellent conditions for astrophotography as well. Photographers should be prepared for varying light conditions and consider bringing a tripod for stability, especially for low-light shots or long exposures.
For those interested in action photography, the rock climbing itself provides dynamic subjects. Capturing climbers on challenging routes against the backdrop of the gorge can result in striking images. Remember to be mindful of climbers and their space while seeking the perfect shot.


Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit