Triple Play Cliff stands as a striking slabby wall tucked between Holy Trinity and the more towering Gorgeous Towers in California’s Owens River Gorge. At roughly 5,790 feet in elevation, this climbing area offers a unique angle — literally and figuratively — for climbers seeking technical routes on largely slab terrain. Approaching Triple Play puts you on a talus scramble that veers right from the main trail to Gorgeous Towers, a brief but careful step away that rewards climbers with a blend of solid rock and quieter crowds.

The climbing here is characterized by its smooth, slabby rock, offering a contrast to the steeper faces found elsewhere in the gorge. Routes range primarily in the 5.8 to 5.12 grading spectrum, rewarding precise footwork and patience over brute force. Classic climbs at Triple Play include approachable favorites like Cat in the Hat (5.8) and Gorge Corner (5.9), both providing a balanced introduction to the area’s style. More ambitious climbers will find challenges in routes like Musta Been High (5.12a) and Spiral Out (5.12), which stand out with their higher technical demands and are respected for clean movement and thoughtful sequences.

The landscape here offers more than just climbing — the elevated position on the talus affords sweeping views of the surrounding Eastern Sierra, with the Owens River Gorge stretching below and the distant peaks adding a dramatic backdrop. While the approach is short, care should be taken negotiating loose rock and talus fields, making sturdy shoes and cautious steps a necessity.

Weather in Owens River Gorge can vary, but climbing shines during the drier months. Spring through fall welcomes clear skies and moderate temperatures, although the desert sun can be intense midday. The slabs offer limited shade, so climbers should plan their sessions early or late in the day to avoid heat exhaustion. Given the elevation, temperatures can drop noticeably once the sun sets.

One essential consideration for visitors is the current access situation. Bridges across the Owens River Gorge have been removed due to liability concerns, and negotiations between the local climbers’ coalition and LADWP are ongoing. Until resolved, climbers must respect bridge closures, seek alternate river crossings, and follow land stewardship guidelines scrupulously. This includes avoiding parking on pavement, leaving no trace—including packing out all trash and human waste—and respecting posted restrictions to maintain access for the future.

From a gear perspective, while the climbing style leans on slab techniques, a solid rack of traditional protection and some draws for bolted sections are advised. Though fixed gear may appear, familiarity with placing secure protection is invaluable given the variety of crack and face routes available. Helmets are recommended to protect from occasional rockfall on talus approaches.

Descents from Triple Play are generally straightforward with a walk-off back down the talus to the main trailhead, though careful footing is crucial to avoid slips after a long climb. This area’s relatively low traffic combined with its position offers a quieter, more contemplative climbing experience compared to busier sectors in Owens Gorge, perfect for climbers who want well-earned solitude along with technical routes.

Classic routes here provide a sampling of the area’s character: Cat in the Hat charms with moderate slab moves, Badassitude and Bill’s Little Black Book present well-protected challenges, while the steeper Musta Been High and Spiral Out offer test-piece status for more advanced climbers. Whichever climb you tackle, Triple Play Cliff demands focus, smooth technique, and an appreciation for the subtle challenges of slab climbing.

Owens River Gorge remains a treasured climbing destination in Eastern California, blending scenic variety with quality rock and nuanced routes. Triple Play Cliff adds a distinct flavor to the mix — a chance to engage directly with slab climbing’s thoughtful style in a wild, rugged canyon setting. Prepare wisely, respect the fragile access situation, and you’ll find yourself immersed in a climbing day that challenges both mind and body while surrounded by the expansive beauty of the Eastern Sierra.