HomeClimbingLove of Jesus

Love of Jesus Climb in Owens River Gorge

Bishop, California United States
runout sections
mixed protection
solid Sierra granite
windy exposure
single pitch
crux near bolt 3
Length: 75 ft
Type: Trad | Sport
Stars
Pitches
1
Location
Love of Jesus
Aspect
South Facing

Overview

"Love of Jesus blends tight bolting with smart gear placements for an engaging 75-foot pitch in Owens River Gorge. With confident movement required on runouts and a crux near the third bolt, this climb rewards steady climbers ready for a bit of adventure on solid Sierra rock."

Love of Jesus Climb in Owens River Gorge

Tucked into the dramatic cliffs of Owens River Gorge, Love of Jesus offers a compact yet rewarding climb that blends sport and trad elements seamlessly. This single-pitch, 75-foot route challenges climbers with a mix of well-spaced bolts and opportunities for traditional gear placements, making it an engaging test for those comfortable with a bit of runout. The approach to the first bolt feels airy, inviting a confident mindset before the rock pulls you into easier moves that lay the groundwork for the crux. Reaching the third bolt demands precise footwork and composure, as the spacing widens, but the sizable hold available to clip from provides a reassuring anchor in an otherwise committed section. Above this point, climbers encounter a flake that shifts subtly under weight, so maintaining deliberate control is crucial. The route’s protection features five bolts, supplemented by well-placed Tri-Cams, which snugly fit into natural pockets between bolts three through five. Two pink Tri-Cams slide perfectly into parallel slots, while a red Tri-Cam adds security near the second bolt, safeguarding the crux within the PG-13 grading. The rock surface here is solid with bursts of vertical tension that reward steady technique rather than brute strength. The climb sits within the rugged Supreme Wizard Formation, a slice of the Sierra Eastside that presents sweeping views of the Owens River far below and the open skies above. The gorge itself acts like a natural amphitheater, where the wind whispers tales of past ascents and the sun casts sharp shadows on the sheer walls. Approaching the route is straightforward—an easy hike through arid terrain marked by scrub and wildflowers—and the access trail requires attention to footing but is manageable for most climbers willing to invest 15 minutes. Stay hydrated and time your climb for morning to enjoy cooler rock and less wind. The descent is a breeze, with a simple top-rope walk-off accessible via a short scramble. Love of Jesus strikes a balance between adrenaline and accessibility—offering a pulse-racing pitch that rewards preparation, solid gear knowledge, and a steady approach to occasional runouts. It's an ideal proving ground for climbers looking to integrate trad protection into mostly bolted climbs while enjoying the arid beauty and expansive views Owens River Gorge provides.

Climber Safety

Exercise caution on the flake above the third bolt, as it exhibits some looseness and flex; precise body positioning and controlled clipping are essential to reduce risk. Additionally, the runout to the first bolt requires confident movement and mental focus.

Route Details

TypeTrad | Sport
Pitches1
Length75 feet

Local Tips

Approach trail takes about 15 minutes and is moderately rocky—sturdy shoes recommended.

Morning climbs provide cooler temperatures and less wind on the face.

Bring a small rack including medium and small cams to cover gear spots between bolts.

Watch for a loose flake above the third bolt; clip and move cautiously.

Route Rating

Difficulty
5.10a PG13
Quality
Consensus:Rated 5.10a with a PG-13 warning, Love of Jesus feels approachable for climbers at this grade but demands respect for the spacing between bolts, especially getting to the third bolt where the crux lies. The grade holds true with a moderate challenge—neither overly stiff nor soft—with a technical move requiring precise foot positioning. This route aligns well with other moderate Owens River Gorge climbs that combine sport staples with the spice of trad security.

Gear Requirements

5 bolts protect the route, but expect to supplement with camming devices—specifically two pink Tri-Cams placed perfectly between bolts 3 and 4 as well as 4 and 5, and a red Tri-Cam backup near the second bolt guarding the crux.

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Tags

runout sections
mixed protection
solid Sierra granite
windy exposure
single pitch
crux near bolt 3