Spring was in the air today, and daffodils were in bloom in the valley below the big granite cliffs of Lovers Leap.
Having stocked up with food and fuel in South Lake Tahoe, we headed off to take a look at some of the climbing at Lovers Leap. Armed with only a sketch map, after a few false trails, we got some knowledge from the climbing store in the village of Strawberry. The campground was still closed for winter, but the guy in the shop told us where to park and let us check the shop's copy of the guidebook. We headed off to the 'Hogsback' (see top photo). The route in involved walking under the main cliff which was really impressive and on another day we'd love to climb it!
Round at the Hogsback, Clare wasn't feeling on top form so, settled into a little nest of ropes while I explored a little further around the corner.
The Hogsback is a big granite dome with some excellent looking low grade multi pitch routes on it. The sweeping slabs looked very inviting, so I soloed up some of the easier angled slopes, just off to the side of where the main climbs are.
There were easy crack systems to follow and I soon arrived at the top of the slabs without encountering any difficulties.
There was a great view from the top - especially over towards the main cliff.
Then it was back to the van, and onwards with the journey to Yosemite. We followed Highway 49 which is a tiny winding road that joins up loads of old gold mining towns. It was a slow route, but we passed though some good scenery and really wacky townships!
The vegetation and landscape has completely changed now. The desolation and desertscape has turned to lush green rolling hills and deciduous trees. The snowy peaks of Mammoth are far behind us now. It feels like a completely different country (and season!).
Tonight we are staying in a former brothel in a cowboy gold mining town called Jamestown. It's pretty old school to say the least.
This is the downstairs of the hotel. It feels like some cowboy might burst in and start a shoot out at any minute.
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