Set at 6,399 feet in the scenic Buttermilk Country near Bishop, California, Bachar Boulder presents a compelling destination for boulderers eager to test their skill against some of the area's sharpest, cleanest rock faces. Located just east of the well-known Drifter and Peabody Boulders, this impressive mass offers a focused climbing experience with a handful of standout problems that reward precision and power.

The south face of Bachar Boulder features two excellent lines that attract climbers looking for a balanced challenge, combining smooth movement with technical moves. On the west face, you will find two or three harder testpieces, including the famed Sharma Scoop, a boulder problem renowned for its demanding sequences—accessible but only to those confident at higher grades. The northwest face adds an extra layer of variety with its sharp, intricate lines that punch above their rating.

Approaching Bachar Boulder requires a short uphill hike from the lower parking area. Follow the trail past Grandma Peabody and bear right as you near the eastern edges of the Drifter and Smoking Boulders cluster. This approach is straightforward and quick, making it an efficient pick for climbers looking to maximize their time on rock without a lengthy trek.

The Buttermilks atmosphere is one of stark contrast - a high desert playground with wide open skies, scrubby sagebrush, and the Sierra Nevada peaks looming in the distance. The elevation gently challenges endurance, while the sun-facing walls make mornings the ideal climbing window before the heat of the day sets in.

Classic climbs at Bachar include the Bachar Problem Right and Bachar Problem Left, both rated around V5 and celebrated for their clean holds and sustained difficulty. The Sharma Scoop, rated V8, demands high body tension and precise footwork, standing as a landmark challenge for advanced boulderers. These problems are polished, each a technical puzzle on solid rock that requires focus and control.

Climbers visiting Bachar Boulder should bring multiple pads due to the technical nature of landings and the risk posed by uneven surfaces. Given its prominence and the quality of lines, this site is particularly popular among those who prize the Buttermilks for their blend of power and finesse problems. The rock here is solid granite, offering excellent friction but with some blistering edges that reward careful hand positioning.

The climbing season generally centers on cooler months, as summer afternoons can become uncomfortably hot with direct sun exposure. Winter and spring mornings are especially pleasant for sending hard moves, while fall marks a great window before winter snow nudges climbers to lower elevations.

Descent from Bachar Boulder is simple — a walk-off route back down the approach trail ensures a smooth return after sending or projecting your projects of the day.

Whether you’re ticking off classic Buttermilk lines or testing yourself against newer challenges on the west and northwest faces, Bachar Boulder offers a concentrated dose of technical, joyful climbing. The combination of approachable access, quality rock, and a handful of standout routes makes it an essential stopper in the Eastern Sierra’s rich climbing landscape.