Rising at an elevation of 9,100 feet, 4:20 Wall offers a focused and rewarding climbing experience just a short trek from the main road in California's Eastern Sierra. Situated a mere 0.8 miles beyond the famed Gong Show, this wall shares a similar kind of afternoon shade, providing welcome relief from the sun during warm weather hours.

To reach the climbing base, begin from the paved pullout on the right side of the road along Highway 395—precisely 5.3 miles past the junction. From here, the approach follows the Fisherman's Trail eastward, winding briefly through dense woods before it returns to the riverbank. The highlight of the approach is a substantial log crossing that spans the river – sturdy underfoot and marking the transition into the climbing zone. Since July 2016, the trail has been enhanced by seasoned climbers who installed clear cairns and trail markers, making the path to 4:20 Wall more navigable than ever.

After crossing the log, the trail climbs steadily uphill. A distinctive guidepost awaits - an old juniper bearing a massive burl, an unmistakable landmark. From here, cairns lead climbers to the right and upward another five minutes to the base of the wall itself. This carefully established access eases approach concerns, allowing climbers to conserve energy for the routes ahead.

The climbing terrain here features 14 routes ranging from solid 5.9s to challenging 5.11 moves, delivering a rewarding mixture of classic multi-pitch lines and test-piece sport climbs. Some of the standout classics at 4:20 Wall include Whiskey, Neat (5.9), Not The Lamb (5.10), Hangover (5.10c), and Now That’s a Titty (5.11). These routes showcase clean lines with varied movement and technical challenges without overwhelming complexity. The rock is reliable, though specifics on rock type are sparse; climbers are advised to stay attentive to changing conditions.

Weather in this part of the Eastern Sierra plays an important role in planning your visit. Afternoon shade on the wall tempers the heat in summer, making summer and early fall prime seasons. Winter months bring colder temperatures and potential snowpack at elevation, limiting accessibility. Spring and fall generally offer stable, dry conditions perfect for longer climbing days.

Protection ranges from trad to sport styles, so climbers should prepare a versatile rack including cams that fit cracks up to moderate sizes. The new established trail and marked cairns help minimize the approach time, but the ruggedness of the terrain demands reliable footwear and attentive route-finding skills.

Getting down the wall involves careful downclimbing or using established rappel anchors where available. While descent details are not explicitly provided, climbers should bring appropriate rappel gear and be prepared for a moderate hike back along the hunter’s trail.

4:20 Wall sits within the broader Mammoth Lakes climbing corridor, a destination prized for its wide variety of lines and dramatic Sierra vistas. Its proximity to Rock Creek places it among a network of desert-flavored alpine rock, where visitors can combine trips to other areas and enjoy the full breadth of Eastern Sierra climbing. This spot is especially attractive for climbers seeking a slightly quieter alternative to more crowded venues while still having access to proven classic routes.

Whether you’re targeting the steady pull of Not The Lamb, the technical challenge of Hangover, or simply soaking up the rugged atmosphere, 4:20 Wall stands as a concise yet potent climbing destination. It blends approachable access with high-quality climbs and a captivating alpine backdrop, making it a must-visit for any climber exploring California’s Eastern Sierra.