Guides in a Snowbank commands your focus right from the start. The first pitch demands careful movement as you navigate dicey, low-to-the-ground moves before clipping the initial bolt. Beyond this cautious beginning, the route eases into a rhythm of straightforward climbing that rises steadily for three pitches through a series of well-placed bolts that keep you safely clipped, yet still engaged. The walls are mostly vertical with clean granite offering solid hand and footholds, winding upward to a spacious ledge perched about 400 feet above the base. This ledge feels like a welcome pause—an open platform where you can stretch and regroup while the breeze carries the scent of pine and the sounds of distant birds.

The final pitch pushes you up a vertical headwall, noticeably more sustained than the preceding segments. Without fixed anchors, this last stretch asks for solid protection instincts, requiring you to sling a large boulder at the top for your anchor, blending natural features into your safety system. For many climbers, this section is both the mental and physical crux—demanding precision, composure, and a steady grip.

Set in the Southern Sierra near Fresno Dome, the climb rewards with panoramic views of the surrounding granite spires and forested valleys. The route is fully bolted, making it accessible to sport climbers comfortable with a moderate 5.9 grade, though the initial runout on the lower pitches means climbers should be ready to commit confidently. The protection pattern tightens noticeably on the 10a section, so maintaining composure and smooth movement here makes all the difference.

Approaching the climb means a short hike into the c. Main Wall area, where the granite faces rise sharply against a backdrop of open skies. The terrain around the trail is well-tended but remains rugged, requiring sturdy shoes and enough water to stay refreshed under the California sun. A mid-morning start is ideal to avoid overheating on the exposed lower pitches, while the upper headwall catches afternoon light, adding warmth as you move upward.

If you prefer to avoid the headwall, you can wrap up on the big ledge after pitch three and descend toward Fresno Flats, making this route flexible depending on your stamina and time.

Bringing 10 quickdraws is sufficient to clip every bolt except the final anchor — no trad gear beyond slings is necessary. This route is a dependable choice for intermediate lead climbers seeking a manageable but engaging multi-pitch climb with classic granite features and stunning Sierra vistas.