At an elevation of around 8,500 feet, Clearcut Boulder offers a focused bouldering experience set within the greater Rock Creek area of California’s Eastern Sierra—a playground that draws climbers seeking powerful, technical challenges framed by the striking Sierra landscape. This boulder sits at the gateway to the talus field that leads to the Gong Show Wall, making it a natural first stop and warm-up for anyone exploring Rock Creek’s famed bouldering. Approaching Clearcut Boulder involves a short but characterful trek that crosses two small streams via fallen trees, threading close to a river, and following a trail flanked by forest and rock. The approach engages all your senses—cool mountain air, the low rush of moving water, and the fresh scent of conifer—all hinting at the adventure ahead.

Clearcut Boulder itself rises impressively with problems setting on three facets - south, east, and north faces - each offering a distinct style. The east face features shorter, dynamic problems that pack a punch and demand strength and precision, rewarded by a perfect flat landing that ensures comfortable falls. Meanwhile, the north face extends with longer problems that lean into a more moderate grade, providing a chance to build endurance and flow through technical moves on good quality rock. The south face requires a bit more caution, particularly around the landings, calling for attentive spotters and solid crash pad placement.

The rock here is solid and varied, with a mix of holds that require technical smarts and committed moves. Climbers will find cracks, edges, and pockets blending in ways that challenge finger strength and balance alike. This variety enriches Clearcut Boulder, making each problem stand out for its unique demands rather than sheer quantity of routes.

For those mapping out their sends, Clearcut Boulder hosts a handful of classic problems that carry well-deserved reputations among the local climbing community. Problem A (V3) offers a reliable test of finger strength and footwork, earning a 3.5-star rating for its engaging sequence. One Move Blunder (V4) invites climbers to commit to a powerful move that defines the climb’s character, rated at 3 stars. The Blunder Bus (V5) steps up in difficulty with a blend of power and technique, praised at 3.5 stars. Clearcut (V7) challenges climbers more steeply and technically, earning it a 4.5-star rating and marking it as a must-try for those chasing high-grade problems in this area. Overzealous (V9), also 4.5 stars, pushes the limit further, demanding exceptional skill and focus.

The climbing season at Clearcut Boulder favors spring through fall when the weather stabilizes and temperatures are moderate, as rain and snow lessen. The boulder's southern and eastern exposures mean morning sun warms the rock early, making these faces particularly pleasant during cooler months. Afternoon shade on the north face helps during warmer days, extending climbing windows.

Safety is an essential consideration here; while the landing on the east face is perfect, the south face landings require careful planning with pads and spotters to mitigate risk. The approach streams crossed by fallen trees add wilderness character but recommend sturdy boots and attention to footing, especially after rain.

Clearcut Boulder is part of the larger Rock Creek bouldering corridor — a destination prized not only for its quality and diversity of problems but also for its rugged mountain environment with views that reward every effort. Climbers arriving here can expect a blend of strong, technical moves on good rock, set in a deeply scenic setting. Whether you're tipping into the mid-grade problems or stepping up to the more demanding classics, this boulder delivers a well-rounded climbing session with a distinctly Sierra flavor.