"Catwalk challenges climbers with a sleek 110-foot slab route that demands precise footwork and calm nerves. This 5.10a sport climb near Bishop spotlights technical movement on polished stone edged by high desert vistas."
Catwalk presents a compelling 110-foot sport climb set on the striking slabs of Fashion Slab, just outside Pine Creek Canyon in the Bishop Area of California’s Sierra Eastside. This route demands precision and control, rewarding climbers who seek smooth, technical face climbing paired with subtle exposure that keeps the senses sharp. From the ground, the slab appears daunting—bare and shallowly angled—but the bolt line guides a confident ascent where body positioning and balance become your best allies.
Starting with thin, deliberate moves just past the first bolt, Catwalk challenges you to stay patient and composed. The 5.10a rating fits snugly here, reflecting not just the physical demands but the mental focus required to read the features correctly. You won’t find jugs or obvious holds; instead, this climb requires a careful negotiation of edges and smears that compel you to trust your feet.
Midway, at the fourth bolt, the route wraps slightly around a corner to the right, adding a short but distinct variation in angle and sightline before peeling back onto a rounded arete. This segment introduces a fresh element of exposure, where a light breeze whispers encouragement and the Sierra sunlight falls warm on your back, accentuating the subtle textures of the rock. A final push leads to the Prada anchor—a straightforward finish that signals a well-earned reprieve.
The approach to Fashion Slab is typical of Eastern Sierra climbs: a brief hike mostly over rocky terrain with sparse vegetation, designed to wake your legs and mind before you stand beneath this polished challenge. The location's latitude and longitude place it in an area where the afternoon sun illuminates the slab clearly, making early afternoons ideal to avoid glare but still benefit from stable temperatures.
Protection along Catwalk is reliable with 10 bolts spaced to ensure safe progression but be aware that not every bolt is immediately obvious from afar. Climbing this line demands a confident lead climber well-versed in placing feet and clipping smoothly, since falls on slab can be particularly unsettling. Climbers will appreciate the clean anchors at the top and the ease with which the descent can be executed.
For anyone targeting this climb, hydration and approach shoes with solid rubber edges will make a tangible difference. Cooler mornings or evenings bring the best friction and less direct sun, while mid-summer afternoons can warm the rock quickly, necessitating extra care with timing. Catwalk balances the thrill of a Sierra classic with a practical setup that suits focused climbers eager to hone their slab technique.
In essence, Catwalk demands respect and rewards finesse. This is slab climbing stripped to essentials—precise movement, clear judgment, and a steady hold on composure. Whether you’re refining your 5.10 game or looking to expand your comfort on slab, this route in California’s Sierra Eastside offers a pure, grounded experience that connects you directly with the rock and the surrounding high desert landscape.
Slab falls can be unsettling despite good protection, so maintain three points of contact and remain focused on each move. The approach trail has some loose rock—proceed with care and wear a helmet.
Best climbed in the morning or late afternoon for optimum friction and to avoid midday heat.
Wear climbing shoes with sticky rubber for delicate slabs and smears.
Stay patient and deliberate with foot placements to manage the thin slab moves.
Use a helmet during approach due to loose rock sections around the trail.
Ten bolts provide solid clipping points along the route; all are well spaced though not all are immediately visible from the ground. Bring a 60m rope for a single pitch with plenty of rappel options from the Prada anchor.
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