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Main Attraction at Gong Show Wall

Mammoth Lakes, California United States
finger crack
three pitches
traditional protection
east-facing
multi-pitch
rock creek
Sierra Nevada
Length: 300 ft
Type: Trad
Stars
Pitches
3
Location
Main Attraction
Aspect
South Facing

Overview

"Main Attraction offers a three-pitch trad climb on the Gong Show Wall with accessible crack climbing and solid protection. Situated near Mammoth Lakes, it invites climbers into the heart of the Sierra Eastside for a route that balances steady movement with technical interest along olivine-colored rock."

Main Attraction at Gong Show Wall

Set against the rugged backdrop of the Sierra Eastside, the Main Attraction beckons climbers with a straightforward yet engaging three-pitch trad climb that blends accessible crack climbing with enough variety to test technique and gear placement skills. Located on the Gong Show Wall above Rock Creek near Mammoth Lakes, this route thrives on clear, olivine-hued rock and offers a taste of Sierra climbing without the intimidation of higher grades. From the first pitch, you’ll encounter a gentle introduction: a network of easy cracks threading up past a sagebrush that clings to a tiny ledge, guiding you to a comfortable stance just beside a right-facing corner. The climb then pivots left into the corner itself, using steady hand and finger jams to reach the first bolted belay on a ledge, a calm respite with views of dry granite catching the afternoon light.

Pitch two lifts you higher along a picture-perfect finger crack emerging from the ledge below. This section reveals the route’s heart—a powerful line threading upward through cracks that swell and curve around a distinct roof feature. The crack system here rewards clean gear placements up to 4 inches, demanding a mix of steady movement and occasional rests taken on smaller holds. The challenges escalate subtly as the crack angles leftward beneath a large recessed section, ending at a bolted anchor that offers a worthy perch after 140 feet of climbing.

The final pitch begins with a leftward step into a chimney, where thinner cracks prompt careful gear selection and measured movement. Beyond, growing vegetation signals a ledge dotted with loose blocks that climbers must navigate with a watchful eye. The route then tracks rightward around the imposing corner crack, passing a wedged but stable block before arriving at the final chains and rappel anchors. The descent is straightforward yet demands respect: thorough checks on anchors and careful gear management will ensure a safe finish.

Climbers should note the proximity of the "Dirty Love" route, which skirts just to the right of Main Attraction’s start and crosses mid-route on pitch two, a common source of confusion when finding the correct line. Vigilance in route-finding and sticking to the described path keeps the experience pure and avoids unintended detours.

For gear, a standard rack equipped to a #4 Camalot is recommended to handle the diverse crack sizes encountered. The olivine rock quality remains solid, though some blocks and vegetation require moderate caution. The approach is moderate and the wall’s east-facing orientation means mornings and late afternoons provide best conditions, especially during the warmer months. Whether you’re sharpening your crack climbing skills or looking for an accessible multi-pitch adventure near Mammoth Lakes, Main Attraction delivers a balanced blend of natural beauty, technical interest, and solid protection in a classic Sierra setting.

Climber Safety

Loose blocks and vegetation on pitch three require extra attention. Stay alert to anchor conditions and be cautious when navigating the chimney and final ledges, especially during wetter seasons when vegetation might obscure footholds.

Route Details

TypeTrad
Pitches3
Length300 feet

Local Tips

Approach the route from the Rock Creek trailhead, expect about 30 minutes on moderate terrain.

Watch for confusion crossing with the nearby 'Dirty Love' route on pitch two; stick to the main finger crack.

Morning climbs benefit from cooler temperatures as the wall faces east.

Double-check anchor bolts for signs of wear before committing to belays and rappels.

Route Rating

Difficulty
5.8
Quality
Consensus:Rated 5.8, Main Attraction holds a comfortably moderate challenge with occasional crux sections that require precise crack climbing and gear placement. The grade feels true to form, with the second pitch offering the most sustained difficulty, comparable to other trad routes in the Sierra Eastside that emphasize crack technique without overtly stiff moves.

Gear Requirements

A standard rack extending up to a #4 Camalot covers placements on all pitches. The cracks vary from fingers to wider jams, requiring versatility in protection sizes.

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Tags

finger crack
three pitches
traditional protection
east-facing
multi-pitch
rock creek
Sierra Nevada