Located within the rugged expanse of California’s Eastern Sierra, Go Left Old Man offers a focused slab climb that invites both concentration and finesse. This 40-foot single-pitch route presents a clean, polished face where precision footwork and a steady hand are rewarded. The rock leans gently towards the climber, requiring thoughtful balance not brute strength. The route’s standout feature lies just out of reach—the right-hand edge, a tempting line that promises to ease the technical difficulty but demands a leap of confidence and strategic positioning.

This climb suits adventurers ready to refine their slab skills without committing to a lengthy ascent. The four bolts and a few mussy hooks provide secure protection, but caution is key when trusting those last few placements. The granite’s texture is smooth yet offers subtle friction, giving climbers ample sensory feedback with each carefully placed toe. PSOM Slab itself rests amid the more expansive Pine Creek Canyon, an area defined by its serene approach paths, scattering sagebrush, and the occasional call of high desert birds.

Planning this climb means arriving prepared for bright, sun-drenched conditions. The slab faces mostly south and east, so morning climbs offer cooler rock temperatures and less glare. Footwear with sticky rubber and a dependable edging ability enhances traction on the slab’s polished surface. Since the route is brief but technical, hydration and warming up on easier nearby climbs will set a confident tone.

Go Left Old Man remains a preferred choice for climbers who appreciate a climb that is straightforward but demands focus. While the grade reads 5.9-, the proximity of the right-hand edge shortcut can soften the crux, introducing a subtle tactical element. Its compact size and moderate protection make it an ideal stopover during a day of exploring the Bishop Area’s climbing opportunities. Whether you’re polishing slab skills or looking for a quick, satisfying pitch, this route captures the quiet thrill of movement on well-maintained granite.

Approaching the climb is an accessible venture. From the Pine Creek Canyon access road, a short and mostly level hike through open terrain brings you to the base of PSOM Slab. The setting feels wild yet approachable, framed by the Sierra’s soaring peaks. Gear setup is straightforward, and descent is an easy walk off the trail visible from the top anchor. With 41 votes averaging 2.2 stars, this route has earned recognition as a clean slab classic with a nuanced challenge.

For climbers aiming to unlock the fuller potential of Go Left Old Man, attention to detail during foot placements and deliberate breath control while working the crux can transform the route from a straightforward climb into a quiet dance with the rock. This slice of California’s Eastern Sierra presents a raw invitation: test your balance, trust your gear, and enjoy a brief but rewarding dance on granite.