Rising boldly from California’s Owens River Gorge, the Gorgeous Towers stand as a beacon for climbers seeking tall, quality rock in an invigorating setting. This stretch of cliff draws a steady procession of climbers thanks largely to one standout route aptly named Gorgeous, but the area offers far more than a singular highlight. The towering walls are impressively tall, drenched in shade during the heat of summer, and composed of solid rock that rewards precision and commitment.

Accessing Gorgeous Towers requires a short but varied approach that immerses visitors in the rugged environment of the upper gorge. Starting at the trail’s upper approach, your route heads south along the main trail. You'll cross a historic trestle and contour around the gorge’s tight bends. Expect to navigate a slippery log and a sturdy bridge before threading through a wet patch filled with rocky nettles. The final stretch is a talus scramble that brings you face to face with the soaring cliff faces of the towers.

At an elevation of 5,638 feet, the area benefits from a climate that varies by season, with prime climbing months generally stretching from spring through fall. The gorge's north-facing cliffs remain cool in summer’s heat, a blessing when California’s sun is relentless. However, it’s essential to plan ahead—the local Department of Water and Power (LADWP) has recently removed some bridges due to liability concerns. Climbers should respect these closures and use alternate crossings as instructed while efforts are underway to restore access.

Among the classics here, Gorgeous (5.10b) stands out as the signature climb, offering sustained moves on excellent rock. Equally compelling are routes like Pippy the Zenhead (5.9), Road to Cala Gonone (5.9), and Wacked Scenario (5.10b) which share the spotlight with harder climbs like The-Aretical (5.11b) and Knucko’s Pride of the North (5.11b). This range provides challenges across a spectrum of difficulty, with well-protected lines mostly suited to sport climbers. Whether stepping up from moderate 5.9s or chasing redpoint on 5.11s, there's a climb here that fits your ambition.

Gear-wise, standard sport rack requirements apply: a full rack of quickdraws will cover most routes, and a rope in the 60-70 meter range facilitates most pitches. The rock quality translates to positive climbing but expect some sections to be technical where route-finding precision pays dividends. Talus fields at the base can be unstable, so sturdy approach shoes and attentive footing are recommended.

Climbing in this part of the Owens River Gorge rewards those who come prepared and mindful of stewardship. The local climbing community emphasizes respecting the land: parking off pavement, leaving no trace, and observing access rules enhance the experience for all. Outhouses are available on site and using them helps keep the area healthy and welcoming.

In short, Gorgeous Towers delivers a climbing experience that combines classic routes and solid rock with a striking natural setting. The approach is a lively hike through forested patches and river views, while the climbs themselves offer varied, technical sport lines in a peaceful canyon. Whether you’re drawn by the allure of the namesake Gorgeous or intrigued by other top-tier routes, this is a destination that balances adventure with practicality. Plan carefully, bring your best practices, and you'll enjoy some of California's premier sport climbing in the Owens River Gorge.