Groovin' stands out as a compact yet demanding climb set on the furthest right edge of Iris Slab, a striking formation on the outskirts of Rock Creek in California’s Sierra Eastside. This route, rated 5.8 R, delivers a unique blend of technical crack climbing and tricky face moves that catch many climbers off-guard. From the moment your fingers find the broken crack system that arcs upward along the sun-dappled granite, you realize this isn’t a straightforward pitch. The rock’s texture offers reliable friction, but the moves near the top push your balance and commitment as the crack fades and you reach for an improbable right-leaning edge.

The final lip demands a precise undercling move that feels more like a 5.10 crux than the given rating suggests. The subtle difficulty here stems from the route’s reliance on body tension and perfect positioning with little recovery. It's a move that tests not just physical skill but mental focus, making the climb memorable well after you’ve lowered off. This challenge is amplified by the "R" rating, an alert that protecting the route can be nervy—spots for pro are limited, mostly up to one inch, requiring careful piece selection and patience.

Anchorage is handled by a shared two-bolt anchor set approximately ten feet below the cliff’s summit. The bolts offer security for the belayer or a rappel option, but the sustained steeper climbing below means you should be confident with runouts on this pitch. While the climb’s length is short—just a single pitch—the experience is dense with tactical decisions and movement precision.

Iris Slab’s position in the Mammoth Lakes area means that access is generally straightforward and well worth the journey. The approach rolls through open forest with a gentle incline, offering a moment of calm before the intensity of the face. It’s best to tackle Groovin' in cooler morning hours when the slab is blanketed in shade, as sweltering sun can sap your grip and stamina.

For those looking to push limits on Sierra’s granitic walls with a route that balances gear wisdom and technical choreography, Groovin' is a compelling choice. However, this isn’t an ideal lead for beginners or anyone hesitant to manage risk—the solo warning underscores how quickly exposure rises if things go wrong. Ensuring proper footwear for friction, bringing pro sets up to one inch, and having a solid plan for retreat will bring focus and confidence.

Groovin’ offers the kind of climbing that sticks with you: a dance along granite, where every move counts and the landscape’s quiet power surrounds you. Climbing here means reading both the rock and your own limits while enjoying one of California’s underrated crags, poised just beyond the bustle of Mammoth Lakes. It’s a snapshot of trad climbing’s raw spirit—technical, a little edgy, and deeply rewarding for those ready to groove.