"Good Times on Planet Earth offers a mix of accessible climbs and rugged charm just above P Wall in San Luis Obispo, California. Featuring classic routes like Live a Life of Love and Purgatorio, this spot invites climbers to enjoy manageable approaches, upgraded anchors, and a peaceful Central Coast setting."
Rising quietly just above the renowned P Wall and slightly to the right of Sunnyside, Good Times on Planet Earth offers climbers a refreshing escape in California’s San Luis Obispo region. It’s perched approximately 100 feet above the terrain known as 2 Teacte Challenge, specifically pitch 7, delivering a pocket of vertical adventure that rewards those who seek it. Approaching this area means threading your way up the gully nestled between The Grotto and The Underworld — an approach marked by an obvious slab that invites climbers to angle up and right. For those preferring a more adventurous arrival, it’s possible to lead up either P Wall or The Grotto and top out to an easy walk-off. What’s new and welcome is the installation of a higher rappel station above The Grotto, eliminating the need for the once sketchy scramble to reach the anchor. A solid 60-meter rope will get you safely to the ground without fuss.
Good Times on Planet Earth pulses with a relaxed yet purposeful vibe, suited for climbers who appreciate straightforward access with options for varied approaches. The setting lies within the broader San Luis Obispo area, rich with climbing history and natural beauty. While the rock type and elevation aren’t specifically noted, the majesty of the Central Coast ensures you’re surrounded by coastal breezes and the soft murmur of California’s open landscapes.
The climbing itself presents an inviting array of challenges, notably highlighted by its classic ascents: Live a Life of Love (5.10b), Purgatorio (5.11a), and You May Say I’m a Dreamer (5.12c). These established routes offer a blend of technical moves and rewarding sequences, serving as benchmarks for the area’s character. The stars these climbs carry (ranging from 3.0 to 3.5) hint at enjoyable climbs that warrant attention without pushing into extremes, holding appeal for intermediate climbers eager for a solid test without unnecessary risk.
Weather-wise, Good Times on Planet Earth benefits from California’s generally mild conditions. Although specific averages are not detailed, the climbing season ebbs and flows through much of the year, inviting visitors to strike when the days are driest and temperatures moderate. Spring and fall typically deliver the most stable and pleasant climbing windows here.
Because the climbs rest primarily on sport or top-rope setups around this crag, ensuring your gear includes a reliable 60-meter rope and well-maintained anchors is essential. The recent enhancement of the rappel anchor above The Grotto dramatically increases safety and efficiency on descent, a significant upgrade for visitors. The approach, while relatively straightforward, crosses varied terrain that calls for good hiking shoes and steady footing — prepare for sections of slab climbing and potential loose rock near the anchors.
The surrounding San Luis Obispo area offers more than just climbing — it’s a gateway to the broader wonders of California’s Central Coast, where forested paths and panoramic vistas meld with rugged cliffs and deep ravines. After a day on the wall, the opportunity to unwind in a scenic setting or explore nearby Bishop Peak adds to the adventure’s completeness.
Practically speaking, climbers should plan for moderate rock conditions and variable exposure depending on the route chosen. Since the rock type isn't specified in detail, it’s wise to bring versatile climbing shoes suited for both slab and vertical climbs. Protection gear should lean towards standard sport setups, with emphasis on reliable quickdraws and helmets — the recent upgrades in anchor stations speak to ongoing improvements, but vigilance is key.
Local tips include: ascents are best tackled early to mid-morning to avoid afternoon sun; the new rappel station is a game changer for quick descents; the approach trail, while clear, can be slippery in wet conditions; and practicing careful route-finding near The Grotto and Underworld will save time and preserve the area’s natural flow.
In summary, Good Times on Planet Earth stands as a quietly compelling area for those seeking well-established climbs framed by approachable access and upgraded safety infrastructure. Its casual setting blends naturally with the rugged backdrop of San Luis Obispo, making it an ideal stop for climbers who want solid routes without the crowds. Whether you’re chasing the finesse of Live a Life of Love or ready to push limits on You May Say I’m a Dreamer, this area offers a taste of California’s Central Coast climbing that’s both accessible and rewarding.
While the new rappel station enhances safety on descent, the approach involves slab sections that can be slick when wet. Use caution near loose rock and always wear a helmet on climbs to mitigate rockfall risk.
Start climbs early to avoid afternoon sun exposure.
Use the new rappel station above The Grotto for a safer descent.
Approach trail can be slippery; wear sturdy footwear.
Pay attention to route-finding between The Grotto and The Underworld to avoid unnecessary scrambling.
A 60-meter rope is required for rappelling, especially with the higher rap station above The Grotto that allows a safer descent. Standard sport climbing gear including quickdraws and helmets is recommended. Approach involves slab hiking and some loose rock near anchors.
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