Digi at PSOM Slab: A Classic 5.8 Trad Climb in Bishop's Sierra Eastside

Bishop, California United States
slab climbing
crack climb
single pitch
mixed protection
Bishop
outdoor
trad
5.8
Length: ft
Type: Trad
Stars
Pitches
1
Location
Digi
Aspect
South Facing

Overview

"Digi challenges climbers with a thoughtful blend of slab and crack moves on PSOM Slab’s moderate 5.8 line. Perfect for those seeking a technically varied pitch in Bishop’s majestic Sierra Eastside, this route balances fun moves with solid protection, making it a go-to for trad climbers refining their skills."

Digi at PSOM Slab: A Classic 5.8 Trad Climb in Bishop's Sierra Eastside

Digi offers climbers an engaging introduction to the classic trad lines on PSOM Slab within Pine Creek Canyon. This single-pitch route begins on a low-angled slab where delicate footwork sets the pace before you confront a modest roof feature. Moving past this obstacle, the climb eases into a broken crack system that rewards steady technique, requiring both precision and composure. As you progress, the face terrain opens up, inviting you to read small edges and flakes that demand careful placement and balance. Eight fixed bolts protect the route, but gear placements up to 1 inch remain essential to supplement your rack and ensure security.

Set against the backdrop of Bishop’s eastern Sierra landscape, the rock's texture both challenges and guides your movements. The surface is a mix of smooth slab and fractured crack—each section feeling alive under your hands, as if the rock itself urges you onward. The route's setting provides a clear connection to the surrounding wilderness; the air carries the crispness of high desert mornings, and pine trees whisper nearby, giving a quiet accompaniment to the focused climbing.

At roughly 37.39 latitude and -118.67 longitude, PSOM Slab’s exposure is moderate, with an orientation that often catches early sunlight. This makes mornings particularly pleasant for an early start, avoiding the heat that can build midday. When weather is mild, Digi offers a rewarding challenge that suits both developing trad climbers and those seeking a confident 5.8 to warm up on.

The approach to PSOM Slab is straightforward yet requires attention. Trails through Pine Creek Canyon are well-worn but can be uneven in places—rocky dirt paths with occasional loose stones require sturdy, supportive footwear. Allow about 30 minutes from the typical parking area to reach the base, giving yourself plenty of daylight to climb and descend. The rappel anchors at the top consist of a two-bolt ‘Mussy Hook’ setup, allowing for a double-rope rappel back to the ground safely and efficiently.

Preparation for Digi should include bringing a standard rack with cams up to 1 inch and a set of nuts, as bolts alone won't guarantee smooth protection placements. Climbing in pairs with clear communication enhances safety, especially if wind picks up or if the canyon's quiet is replaced by unexpected wildlife sounds. Given the route’s shear slab and crack combination, climbers should be prepared to balance technical face moves with sustained crack jams, which together create a richly varied but accessible challenge.

Overall, Digi embodies the core of Sierra Eastside climbing — straightforward yet textured with enough detail to develop your skills and savor the outdoors. It's an approachable line that rewards attention to detail, offering a taste of Bishop’s bolder climbs without overwhelming the climber. Whether you’re here to sharpen your trad instincts or seeking a solid 5.8 that bridges slab and crack nicely, Digi stands ready to test and thrill.

Climber Safety

Watch footing carefully on the initial slab before the roof; spots can feel exposed and slippery, especially when wet. Ensure clean gear placements near the roof, as protection relies on precise placements rather than bolts alone. Be mindful of loose rock and avoid approaching after rainfall to reduce slip hazards.

Route Details

TypeTrad
Pitches1
Length feet

Local Tips

Start early to enjoy cooler morning temperatures and avoid afternoon heat.

Wear sturdy shoes with good edging to handle slab sections effectively.

Double-check anchor setup on rappel; the Mussy Hook requires attentive rigging.

Pack plenty of water—dry Sierra air can dehydrate quickly on approach and climb.

Route Rating

Difficulty
5.8
Quality
Consensus:Rated 5.8, Digi walks a fine line between approachable and engaging. The slab sections introduce a sustained face-climbing feel, while the broken crack and roof add subtle complexity without ramping difficulty sharply. The grade feels fair and consistent, making it a reliable benchmark for climbers working on trad movement and gear placements alike. Compared to other Bishop classics, it provides a slightly more technical slab emphasis, suitable for those comfortable on friction and jams.

Gear Requirements

The route features eight bolts supplemented by traditional gear placements up to 1 inch. Bring a set of cams and nuts to cover the mixed protection needs safely.

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Tags

slab climbing
crack climb
single pitch
mixed protection
Bishop
outdoor
trad
5.8