Tucked just off the Cottonwood Lakes Trail, about 3.7 miles from the trailhead, Gopher’s Den offers climbers and campers a quiet, off-the-beaten-path escape in the Eastern Sierra of California. At an elevation of 11,285 feet, this rugged spot is framed by boulders that beckon with untapped climbing potential. It’s a place where the usual crowds fade away, leaving just you, the rock, and the alpine air. This is not a polished crag filled with busy routes but a raw landscape inviting exploration and discovery. Bring a brush to clean the holds — many lines here have yet to receive frequent attention, promising fresh challenges for those willing to put in the effort.

Approach here follows the well-traveled Cottonwood Lakes Trail, a scenic route that leads you past the fourth and fifth lakes before diverging right to reach Gopher’s Den. The terrain is high mountain wilderness—expect granite outcrops, scattered boulders, and open forest patches. This makes it an appealing stop for through-hikers looking to break their journey with a camping spot and some bouldering opportunities. With camping tucked between large rocks, this area provides a rugged but memorable base to rest and refuel.

The climbing vibe is brisk and straightforward. The classic climb here is Cut-Off (V3), rated 3.0 stars for its quality among the offerings. While route details and difficulty ranges remain a work in progress, the area’s unfrequented nature makes it perfect for climbers eager to experience solitude and set their own lines. Whether you’re brushing off dust from holds or scouting new problems, Gopher’s Den feels like a playground for scrappy boulderers and alpine adventurers alike.

Weather in this part of the Sierra can be variable. Summer months provide the prime climbing season, with warm days and crisp nights, but be prepared for sudden changes in conditions. Since the approach already elevates you above 11,000 feet, acclimatization and proper layering are important. The area receives occasional precipitation; bringing water-resistant gear and monitoring the forecast will keep your experience safe and comfortable.

Protection here is minimal, centered on bouldering. A set of quality pads and a brush to clean holds are essential. The rock itself offers solid contact but needs some care to maintain clean lines. Gopher’s Den is a remote zone — getting there means committing to the hike and understanding the solitude you’re stepping into.

Beyond climbing, the surrounding Eastern Sierra landscape opens up the chance to soak in alpine lakes, forested paths, and sweeping vistas that make the effort worthwhile. Nearby locales such as Horse Shoe Meadows add context to the region’s vast wilderness playground, where clear air and starry nights are rewards unto themselves.

If you value a blend of rugged camping with hands-on bouldering beneath high mountain skies, Gopher’s Den presents a distinct, understated jewel. It’s a chance to escape busy crags and test your skills in a quiet setting that encourages self-reliance and exploration. Trail access is simple but remote, climbing is intimate and wild, and the season is limited—plan carefully, pack smart, and prepare for an alpine experience that stretches beyond the rock face into the soul of the Sierra.