Chalk Bluff Rd
Bishop, CA

With everything from jugs to crimps to pockets, caves and cracks, you can find just about anything here. The Happy and Sad Boulders offer hundreds of boulder problems that will delight and challenge climbers who come to Bishop. The epic climbing and the stunning backdrop of the Eastern Sierra, including incredible peaks like Mt. Tom and the Wheeler Crest, it’s easy to see what makes this area so popular.

Chalk Bluff Rd
Bishop, CA

Head north from Bishop on Highway 395 and make a right onto Pleasant Valley Road. Turn right again onto Chalk Bluff Road after passing by the Pleasant Valley Campground. On your left hand side is a cliff band, continue for about two miles until you hit the parking and access area for Happy Boulders. The pit toilet is located here as well. Continue on to the second kiosk area to access the Sads.

Chalk Bluff Rd
Bishop, CA

There is something for every type of climber between the Happy and Sad Boulders. There is an abundance of low traverses and link-ups, plenty of overhangs with friendly handholds, crimpy routes, cracks, and a ton of finger pockets. The landings are flat and there’s a pretty wide range of difficulties here too. This canyon also is really great for just exploring, so if you have little ones, or folks in your group that aren't bouldering, this is a sweet spot to bring them where they can enjoy themselves too. Maybe you all need a break from the snow in Mammoth? This is it!

Chalk Bluff Rd
Bishop, CA

The volcanic rock in this area created channels, cracks and underhangs that draw climbers from all over the world to experience Bishop Tuff (the type of volcanic rock) for themselves. A little bit easier on the hands than the rock over at the nearby Buttermilks, the Happy and Sad Boulders offer more of a challenge for your muscles rather than your skin.

Chalk Bluff Rd
Bishop, CA

Fall, winter and spring are all amazing times to be at the Happy and Sad Boulders. They are nestled in a canyon, so there is some protection from wind, as well as the sun on the warmer days. On cooler days, there are plenty of boulders that get great sun. These boulders do get snow occasionally, and due to the porousness of the rocks, when they are wet, they are more susceptible to breaking, so please climb only when they are dry.

Chalk Bluff Rd
Bishop, CA

Bouldering usually requires one to wander in and around the rock formations, often off-trail. The flora and fauna in this area are fragile, so leave no trace and pack out anything you bring in to ensure it stays beautiful for generations to come. Thank you!