Right Side Gully stands as the gateway to the Fortress climbing area along California’s Central Coast, offering a day filled with engaging multi-pitch routes framed by striking flatiron formations. This area earned its place in local climbing history as the first sector to receive major development, and it continues to captivate climbers with routes mostly ranging from 5.7 to 5.10d. The long climbs here are moderate in difficulty, making the gully a superb option for those wanting a full day of continuous climbing without encountering steep, technical extremes.

The gully springs from three dominant flatirons sculpted by time and weather, each providing solid rock and aesthetic summits. Of these, two formations harbor noteworthy routes: P.I.H. (Permanent Income Hypothesis) and Capitalism & Freedom stand out not only for their excellent exposure but also for their accessible grades and clean lines. These climbs reward climbers with views that open outward across the rolling hills and rugged wilderness of the territory, letting you breathe in the vastness during your ascent.

Approaching Right Side Gully is straightforward and adds to the overall experience. From the parking turnout along Hwy 33, a brief walk leads down to Sespe Creek where you’ll cross and follow the stream before climbing a hillside to reach the base of the first pitch of Free to Choose (5.9). This pitch is a key to accessing multiple nearby routes—traversing right from its base leads you to climbs such as Classically Liberal (5.11a) and Consumption Dysfunction (5.10a). While it’s technically possible to scramble directly up the gully itself to reach routes like P.I.H. and Natural Rate of Unemployment, this is not recommended due to the boulder-laden drainage and loose terrain.

Climbers will appreciate the mix of rock quality and climbing styles here, which broadly support steady, sustained effort across moderate difficulties. The grading tends to be fair with a comfortable flow, making it a welcoming destination for intermediate climbers who want to push their limits on well-protected, multi-pitch lines. The included classics—Free to Choose, Permanent Income Hypothesis, Consumption Dysfunction, Capitalism & Freedom, Adaptive Expectations, Natural Rate of Unemployment, and Classically Liberal—offer a balanced sampling of challenges and exposures.

The area’s setting near Sespe Creek gives it a quiet, remote feeling despite its relative accessibility, with heat and sun exposure balanced by shaded draws and elevation changes. Climbers should check local road conditions, particularly Hwy 33, which can be subject to closures that affect access. Planning a trip during the prime climbing seasons—typically spring through early summer and again in fall—will ensure you enjoy comfortable weather and optimal rock conditions.

While Right Side Gully offers fantastic climbing potential, a respectful approach to the terrain is vital. Rockfall hazards exist in the boulder drainage areas, and the descent demands care, as no direct walk-offs are readily available. Routes generally require a standard rack for multi-pitch trad climbing, with the ability to place traditional protection confidently on quality cracks and features.

For those seeking adventure mixed with approachable challenges, Right Side Gully invites a day full of invigorating climbs, panoramic exposures, and a taste of the Fortress’s climbing legacy. Whether you’re linking pitches or savoring the views from the summit, this sector rewards careful preparation and steady effort with some of the Central Coast’s most enjoyable multi-pitch climbing.