Perched at an elevation of 9,324 feet above sea level near Lake George, California, Sideshow (Upper) presents a compelling destination for climbers craving technical climbs on high-quality granite. The upper wall splits into two distinct features — a north slabby face that demands delicate footwork and balance, and a steep east-facing granite sheet that challenges with its sharp angles and engaging sequences. The rock here is notably solid, making every move feel deliberate and rewarding.

Approaching the wall requires a bit of adventure from the start. Climbers must ascend talus slopes, steadily trending left to find the easiest path. A short 4th class scramble transitions you onto sloping granite slabs which lead directly to the base of the climbs. This approach, while not overly long, is rugged and requires a steady footing, so allow time to navigate carefully and enjoy the quiet wilderness setting.

Once at the base, the climbing experience is focused and highly technical. The available routes, including the notable classic Freak Show (rated 5.11d), offer routes that favor precision and finesse over brute strength. The rock’s texture rewards careful placement, and the upper wall's orientation means morning light warms the east-facing granite, creating ideal climbing conditions during early hours.

Descending is straightforward and efficient thanks to rappel bolts positioned at the base. This setup turns what could be a tricky downclimb scramble into a safe, quick descent—an important detail given the rugged approach and alpine environment. Though the area sees only a handful of routes, the quality of each gives climbers a solid taste of technical granite in a quiet Eastern Sierra setting.

Weather and seasonal timing also factor into planning your visit. The high elevation often means cooler temperatures and potential snow well into spring, and it’s best to target the prime climbing months between late spring and early fall when the granite is dry and stable. Be prepared for quick changes in the mountain weather and pack accordingly.

Sideshow (Upper) is part of the broader climber’s playground in the Mammoth Lakes region near the Eastern Sierra’s Lake George. While it might not host an overwhelming number of routes, the focus here is on quality — technical granite climbing with a clear, straightforward approach and descent. If you’re looking for quiet alpine walls with a demanding edge, this area deserves a spot on your itinerary.

Classic routes like Freak Show stand out as testaments to the area’s ability to offer climbs that combine technical precision with manageable risk. For climbers who appreciate clean lines on solid rock and don’t mind a bit of scrambling to reach that first clip, Sideshow (Upper) delivers a rewarding experience that balances adventure and practicality at a breathtaking elevation.