HomeClimbingAnother Day in Hell

Another Day in Hell

Bishop, California United States
trad crack
single pitch
Owens River Gorge
mid-route crux
granite
Length: 80 ft
Type: Trad
Stars
Pitches
1
Location
Another Day in Hell
Aspect
South Facing

Overview

"A punchy 80-foot trad dihedral in Owens River Gorge, "Another Day in Hell" challenges climbers with a technical mid-route crux and dependable protection. Perfect for those looking to refine crack skills amid the raw beauty of California’s Eastern Sierra."

Another Day in Hell

Situated within the rugged heart of Owens River Gorge near Bishop, California, "Another Day in Hell" offers a compelling single-pitch trad climb that balances straightforward movement with a mid-route challenge to keep your focus sharp. This 80-foot dihedral routes you up a clean crack that invites steady hands and a confident approach to gear placement. The rock’s texture feels solid beneath your fingers, while the surrounding walls catch the shifting light of the Eastern Sierra, creating a quietly dramatic backdrop that rewards your ascent.

From the base, you’re immediately aware of the canyon’s carved landscape; dry, crisp air carries the faint sound of the rushing Owens River below—a natural rhythm that sets the pace for your climb. As you move through the initial section, the crack widens and narrows alternately, calling for precise gear racking with protection choices up to 4.5 inches wide, including a selection of runners for the tricky transitions. Midway through, the crux tightens, testing your crack climbing technique and footwork, demanding control without wasted effort. Despite the challenge, shared anchors with the nearby "Another Day in Paradise" provide a reliable and familiar end to your route.

Planning a day on this face means solid footwear that can handle the slight roughness of granite and keeping hydration within reach; the approach is manageable but benefits from early starts to avoid midday heat, especially in summer. The climb’s orientation grants afternoon shade, making late afternoon climbs pleasantly cool as the sun dips behind the Sierra crest.

Approaching the route emerges as part of the Owens River Gorge experience, starting from the well-marked Local Trivia Tower trailhead. The trail is solid but involves moderate elevation gain, winding through open rock fields and sparse brush. Expect roughly 20 minutes to reach the climb’s base, with GPS coordinates anchored precisely at 37.52113 latitude and -118.57268 longitude for easy navigation.

Whether you’re sharpening your crack climbing skills or aiming to tick another classic route in the area, "Another Day in Hell" blends approachable difficulty with a sharp technical moment, rooted in one of California’s most rewarding outdoor climbing spots. The consistent granite quality and straightforward descent—the climber-friendly rappel or downclimb options—make it an excellent climb for those eager to engage with the Owens River Gorge’s spirit without the complexity of extended routes.

This climb sits within a wider protected environment cherished for its stark beauty and climbing heritage. The Owens River Gorge is a destination that draws both seasoned and aspiring climbers, with its open cliffs and accessible trad lines allowing for fulfilling days beneath a vast sky. Timing your visit in spring or fall maximizes comfort and rock conditions, as summer’s heat can warm the rock considerably—though this route’s afternoon shade offers some relief.

In all, "Another Day in Hell" delivers a concentrated dose of Sierra Eastside trad climbing, where the land pushes back just enough to reward your attention and preparation. From gear selection to timing your approach, this climb invites respect but promises a satisfying payoff for those willing to meet it head-on.

Climber Safety

Stay vigilant at the crux where protection placements can be less straightforward and runners may be necessary to reduce fall factors. The approach trail includes exposed sections with loose rock, so watch your footing heading to and from the climb.

Route Details

TypeTrad
Pitches1
Length80 feet

Local Tips

Start early to enjoy cooler temperatures and softer granite conditions before the midday sun.

Ensure your rack includes mid-sized cams; the crack fluctuates between tight and wide setups.

Wear sturdy climbing shoes with solid edging to navigate the slightly abrasive granite texture.

Use the GPS coordinates for precise trailhead access and plan for a 20-minute hike to the base.

Route Rating

Difficulty
5.9
Quality
Consensus:"Another Day in Hell" carries a 5.9 rating that feels accurate but demands respect in the crux section. Expect a focused sequence just past the halfway point where body positioning and precise protection placement make all the difference. This climb aligns with other classic Owens River Gorge routes in technical emphasis but offers a more contained, single-pitch experience.

Gear Requirements

Bring cams up to 4.5 inches and a rack of runners to manage the crack's varied width and placements. Fixed anchors simplify the top-out, but careful gear selection is essential through the crux.

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Tags

trad crack
single pitch
Owens River Gorge
mid-route crux
granite