Core Blimey stands as a compelling trad route carved into the rugged Scheelite Wall, offering climbers an engaging balance of technical crack climbing and bold face moves across three sustained pitches. Set in the striking environs of Pine Creek Canyon near Bishop, California, this climb demands sharp awareness and steady nerves. From the outset, the route invites adventure, beginning with a strenuous 5.9 climb into a pod before linking to a thin hands crack that tests precision and footwork. The first pitch then challenges you to negotiate a subtle traverse around a distinct orange dike—a section with sparse protection but manageable exposure. Anchoring yourself atop a sandy ledge at the base of the next pinnacle provides a necessary moment to gather focus.

The second pitch refreshes with a short, easier crack between the pinnacle and main wall, quickly escalating into a face climb capped by a bolt and diagonal traverse rated at 5.9. The true highlight here is the wide flare harboring a perfect finger crack that encourages confident jams while the route arcs diagonally toward natural belay spots among small bushes. This pitch blends variety seamlessly, rewarding detailed movement and tactical gear placements.

On pitch three, the character shifts into more open climbing with a low-angle hand crack that feels welcoming after the steeper sections. As you step diagonally right, a lieback offers a moment to engage different muscles before reaching a short fat crack that demands patience and precision on the pro. This pitch culminates with a careful traverse up onto a slab—watching for rope drag—where well-placed bolts guide you to the summit’s bolted belay station. Midway here, you can steal a glance downward at the famous Chips Off The Ol’ Block route, a reminder of Bishop’s deep climbing heritage. For those looking to push beyond, the optional fourth pitch extends onto Chips, presenting a sustained 5.9 lieback and corner climb with limited protection and potential fall zones.

Core Blimey isn’t a beginner’s outing, given its technical demands, occasional scant gear placements, and sustained cruxes especially on pitches one, two, and possibly four if extended. However, it rewards those who acknowledge the route’s cadence with a blend of movement that ranges from thin hand jams to delicate face transitions, all framed by the vivid granite that defines this part of the Sierra Eastside. The climb’s 350-foot length is manageable in a day, but careful planning around rope management and protection strategy proves essential.

Access to Scheelite Wall is straightforward from Pine Creek Canyon, involving a moderate hike over well-worn trails that carve through scenic dry forest and granite outcroppings. The approach time typically falls under 30 minutes, with coordinates at approximately 37.38916 latitude and -118.67362 longitude anchoring this slice of Bishop climbing history. Early mornings or late afternoons are ideal for climbing here, as the wall’s aspect delivers welcome shade during warmer months and ample sun during cooler seasons.

Those ready to invest focus and stamina into Core Blimey will find a route that balances engaging climbing and classic trad adventure. Prepare with a full standard rack including doubles to 2 inches, with a few optional larger cams in the 3 to 3.5-inch range to address the fat crack on the third pitch. Protective layers for the traverse on pitch one should be arranged carefully, as pro is limited yet the climbing remains approachable. Hydration and sun protection matter here, given the high desert environment.

In summary, Core Blimey is a compelling climb that deserves attention for its rich climbing texture and the chance to experience a high-quality 5.9 adventure on the Sierra’s east side. It carries the feel of a Valley classic in both style and commitment while offering an experience tuned to Bishop’s legendary granite variety and quiet splendor.