Ground Up Yard Sale! offers an exhilarating punch of climbing on a compact 40-foot wall in the rugged Alabama Hills near Lone Pine, California. This sport route draws its character from a memorable history and a sharp crux that keeps climbers alert throughout the ascent. The climb’s name nods to a slip during the original bolt installation, where a foothold betrayed the pioneer, sending him yard-sale style down to the lower bolt—an incident that adds a tale of grit to the rock’s personality.

Positioned in the Eastern Choss Proving Grounds, a sector within the notorious South Pile area, this short but dynamic route demands attention to detail. Climbers encounter a sequence where choices shape the challenge: transitioning into a slot crack at the third bolt offers a technical crux, while staying on the blunt arete turns the difficulty markedly higher, requiring commitment and precise footwork.

The route features five well-placed bolts secured into the chossy rock, balanced with a two-bolt anchor for a comfortable lower-off. While sport-rated, the rock’s quality means occasional loose holds can be expected, and a little traffic helps clear the route from loose debris and chalk buildup, improving the climb’s flow and safety.

Approaching Ground Up Yard Sale! involves a short trek through the iconic Alabama Hills, where granite formations tilt and crumble, providing a scenic yet gritty environment. The climb faces east, catching morning light that warms chilly limbs, making early daylight hours ideal for pushing hard moves when temperatures are crisp. The route is best attempted in spring through fall, avoiding mid-summer heat and winter’s potential snow at elevation.

Gear here is straightforward: draw five sport quickdraws to clip the bolts and be prepared for the occasional loose rock by wearing a helmet. Footwear with good edging will assist on the sharp holds and arete. Hydration is crucial as the exposed surroundings offer little shade, and the dry desert air quickly saps energy.

For those eager to explore beyond this single pitch, the surrounding Alabama Hills offer a playground of routes with varied character, from slab to steep, and a wilderness feel just minutes from Lone Pine’s amenities. The area offers an appealing blend of challenge and scenery, with broad views of the Sierra Nevada peaks watching silently over each ascent.

Ground Up Yard Sale! stands as a promising sport climb for adventurers seeking a short, engaging challenge with a story embedded in its bolts. Its moderate rating of 5.10a encourages climbers ready to test movement on less-than-perfect rock and balance risk with reward in a place where nature dares you to step carefully and climb boldly.