Catacombs

Sticking the crux move on Looks Like We're One Hor...

Description 

The Catacombs is a really cool place to visit. Not only does it have fine bouldering, but it is worth the trip simply to wander amongst the rock formations.

The area is perched above the Owens River Gorge. Close to the gorge there are many rock towers, that you can explore from either the top or the bottom. At the bottom you find yourself in a maze like structure, often crawling on hands and knees to make progress.

Working back from the gorge edge the towers get smaller and more spaced apart - perfect for bouldering.

The rock is good pocketed tuff, and almost all the landings are on perfect flat pumice.

Come for a day, come for an hour, it doesn't matter, it is worth the trek out here.

Getting There 

On reaching Tom's Place on the 395 take the East turn and drive passed a few houses. After about 4 miles on this road you'll reach Crowley Lake Dam. Cross over the Dam and turning right head up the road (take care as the road narrows). Once at the top of the hill the road turns to dust. After 1.3 miles take the obvious right turn onto the 4S03. Follow this road for just over 3 miles, until you come to a steeper section of road with a switchback.

Continue on passed the switch back for another 1/2 mile then take a right turn. Shortly after turning you'll see left faint left fork - stay right. Just keep staying right all the way to the Catacombs parking lot.

The Classics

Featured Route For Catacombs

Gigantor V2 R  CA : Sierra Eastside : ... : Gigantor Boulder

It doesn't get much better than this for a highball - low crux, good angle, good rests, and a variety of holds.The guidebook gives this a v3, I'm unofficially downgrading it. v2 tops.Climb the delicate opening moves with keen footwork and small but good holds/pockets (crux) to the giant pocket-jug at about the mid-point. Clear your head and move up on good pockets to a huge jug on a flake. Move up and right on a rail and make the last move out...[more]   Browse More Classics in CA

Photos of Catacombs Slideshow

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The wonderful bouldering potential at the Catacomb...	Strolling around The Catacombs	Exploring The Catacombs
The view across the Owens River Gorge, the Wheeler...	Vibrant lichen on the rim of the gorge	Jordan Winters on 'Deal with the Devil' v3, 'Devil...