Rising quietly just uphill and to the right of the iconic Green Wall Boulder, The Hunk stands as a tall, commanding slab that draws climbers with its clean face and approachable challenge. Located within the rugged granite playground of Buttermilk Country in the Eastern Sierra, California, this boulder invites climbers of varying levels to test their skills on its striking vertical slope. Though ‘The Hunk’ itself is rated V2, the setting around it offers additional problems that fill out the experience, giving a solid take on Bishop’s unique bouldering scene.

The approach begins at the familiar Green Wall Boulder. From here, your gaze naturally lifts and shifts right—there it is, a substantial boulder unmistakable in size and form. The climb sits on the right side of the boulder’s north face, which faces uphill. Elevation here sits around 6,413 feet, lending crisp mountain air to your ascent and a refreshing break from the valley heat. The terrain is typical of the Buttermilks, with open granite and sparse vegetation creating a sturdy, exposed setting perfect for a day of technical climbing.

Weather around this part of the Sierra Nevada changes with the seasons and can greatly affect your climbing window. The prime season spans from late fall into early spring, offering cooler temperatures and low precipitation—ideal for maintaining friction and avoiding slippery conditions. Summer days can grow hot, so early morning climbs afford shade and cooler rock. Winter approaches bring their own challenges, occasionally tightening weather and snow at elevation.

Classic climbs here include the namesake problem, The Hunk (V2), consistently praised by climbers for its clean lines and rewarding slab movement, earning it a solid 4.5-star rating. The experience is as much about process as result: the delicate balance and subtle footwork required to move up this granite slab demand patience and respect. Though the other climbs near The Hunk are described as “okay,” the area’s overall vibe is relaxed and inviting, ideal for climbers looking to sharpen slab skills without the crowds that often accompany more famous Buttermilks boulders.

Approaching the boulder is straightforward — hikers will find the terrain uncomplicated but rocky, requiring typical outdoor footwear suited for modest uphill travel. The setting offers a quiet contrast to the busier, more trafficked stretches closer to Bishop proper. GPS coordinates place you squarely in the Buttermilks Main zone, surrounded by the sweeping beauty of Eastern Sierra peaks.

Protection for these climbs is standard bouldering fare. Pads are recommended to buffer landings, especially given the height and slab nature of The Hunk. Falling here demands caution, as the rock below is mostly hard, flat granite, and spotters can make all the difference for a safe session.

The Hunk’s north-facing slab catches softer morning light and remains mostly cool midday, making dawn and late afternoon optimal times for ascent. Its open exposure rewards climbers with clear skies and panoramic views of the surrounding Buttermilk fields and distant Sierra summits. After completing the problems, descent is a simple walk-off around the base or a short scramble downhill, leaving ample time to explore nearby boulders or rest before another attempt.

Beyond the climbing itself, Buttermilk Country is treasured by the climbing community for its distinctive granite, broad spacing between boulders, and the peacefulness it affords despite its growing popularity. For any climber visiting Bishop, The Hunk is a must-try slab that blends technical climbing with a serene setting, inviting an immersive experience that challenges body and mind alike.