Positioned at the western edge of the Druid Stones, the Long Ship stands as one of the first substantial boulders that greet climbers on their approach. Its commanding south face presents a singular challenge — The Long Ship Crack (VB) — which demands a precise and nerve-testing step-across from a neighboring boulder to begin. This move alone sets the tone for what this boulder offers: bold, focused climbing with a flavorful dose of exposure.

The north face and the east corner offer an inviting contrast with a handful of slab climbs that lean into delicate footwork and confident balance rather than raw power. All of these routes register at V1 or easier, making the Long Ship accessible for climbers easing into slab techniques or looking for approachable but rewarding climbs to practice skills on solid granite. One climb that stands out in the area’s classic list is Mister Gorgeous (V1), a well-rated problem known for its clean holds and confident moves, earning a respected 3.5-star rating among locals.

At an elevation just over 6,100 feet, the Long Ship boulder enjoys a high-desert setting typical of the Eastern Sierra near Bishop, CA. The approach is straightforward: as you follow the trail toward the well-frequented Sacrificial Boulder, the Long Ship quietly waits off to the left, signaling your arrival into a section of Druid Stones that balances bold lines with a mellow vibe.

The rock texture here is typical of Sierra granite — solid and reliable — with an emphasis on technical climbing rather than raw power struggles. As you move around the boulder, the diverse angles of the climbing faces reveal different ways to connect with the rock: from the confident moves required on the south crack to the smoothed slab edges that demand polished footwork on the north and east aspects.

For descent, the east corner provides a natural downclimb supported by a sturdy tree, making it simple and safe to return to the base without the need for a rappel. This descent route is intuitive and reinforces the approachable yet purposeful nature of the entire experience.

Climbers visiting Long Ship will want to consider the sunny, south-facing position of the main face when planning their day. Morning through early afternoon offers the best conditions for sticking to dry, warm rock, while the slabs on the cooler north and east aspects provide welcome shade as the sun shifts. The prime climbing season broadly spans spring through fall — when weather conditions are moderate, dry, and comfortable for exploration.

In all, the Long Ship provides a crisp taste of Bishop’s renowned bouldering with fewer crowds and a calming wilderness feel. Whether you’re honing slab technique, testing bold moves, or simply soaking in the vast, open Sierra views, this area invites steady progress with a rewarding commitment to smart beta and eye on safety.

Classic climbers will recognize Mister Gorgeous among the highlights here, but the overall lineup offers a blend of straightforward challenges perfect for both newer climbers building confidence and veterans refining their footwork. The well-kept trail and proximity to other notable boulders in the Druid Stones make it an ideal stop during a day of climbing around Bishop.

The Long Ship reflects the Eastern Sierra’s spirit — minimal fuss, maximum purity of movement, and a setting that rewards attention to detail and respect for the mountain environment.