Rising at an elevation of 7,550 feet in the rugged expanse of California’s Eastern Sierra, Kadawn Buttress offers climbers a compelling opportunity to test their skills on solid granite faces that range from 5.10 up to 5.13+. This south to southwest facing wall is sculpted by steep pitches that demand precision and power, rewarding effort with stunning vistas and a raw connection to one of Bishop’s lesser-trafficked climbing spots.

Accessing Kadawn Buttress involves a purposeful approach up Laundromat Canyon, a route shared with Super Fun Site and Saint Valentine’s Slab. After parking, follow the path until you reach the distinctive T-rex boulder on your right side. Instead of turning left toward Super Fun Site, continue straight ahead. The trail then requires a brief scramble up a steep slab equipped with a fixed rope, placing you exactly at the base of Kadawn, a climb that feels both remote and immediately promising. This approach typically takes about 30 minutes—enough time to shift focus from trail rhythm into climbing mindset.

The granite here is consistent, offering a tactile experience of quality rock that grips fingers well and challenges climbers to read subtle features. The buttress’ steepness demands solid technique, especially on classic routes like Center Crack (5.10c), a favorite that garners wide acclaim for its clean hand jams and demanding sequences. While the overall collection of climbs is concise and precise, each route carries weight in its individual character, attracting climbers looking for intense, refined challenges rather than a sprawling playground.

Kadawn’s orientation makes it an ideal spot for climbing in the cooler months or early spring, when the afternoon sun hits the wall but the air remains crisp. Summers can grow hot, so early starts are recommended. Additionally, its position above Laundromat Canyon means the area benefits from a dry climate with minimal precipitation, allowing for reliable climbing conditions most of the year.

Beyond the climbing itself, the setting invites reflection amid the pine-scented canyon air, with clear skies opening to distant Sierra peaks. After sends or falls, taking in these surroundings grounds the experience — turning each ascent into a full-bodied encounter with the mountain.

Gear-wise, climbers will want a rack suitable for traditional protection, paying attention to crack sizes found on routes like Center Crack. While the approach involves some scrambling with fixed ropes, it requires no technical hiking gear, but sturdy footwear and readiness for moderate exposure are recommended. Descending Kadawn typically involves retracing your steps down the approach slab, so caution is necessary on loose rock sections.

For climbers seeking to expand their local itinerary, Kadawn Buttress sits within the broader Pine Creek Canyon area, meaning adjacent zones like Laundromat Canyon hold additional challenges and rewards, accessible within a short drive or hike. When planning your trip, account for the 30-minute approach and factor in weather and seasonal conditions to maximize your time on the rock.

Kadawn stands out as a destination for those who appreciate steep, quality granite climbing with manageable access and a fiercely pure character. The classic climbs here, particularly Center Crack (5.10c), highlight the technical, sharp nature of the rock and offer a benchmark route that draws appreciation from visitors. For anyone charting a course through California’s Eastern Sierra, Kadawn Buttress is a purposeful climb worth the approach and effort—where adrenaline meets granite precision and the mountains speak clearly through their cracks and angles.