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It never ceases to take my breath away. Below me the river winds its way through the narrow canyon, an endless network of rapids and channels created by the river-polished boulders thrown into the waters. The grass and rock covered slopes are dramatic, rising steeply up from the river into a high multitude of peaks and ridges. As the sun traces its path through the sky, its rays burst down the gullies and slopes in broad sheets, casting deep shadows in some places and setting the grass aflame in gold in others. Above me hawks listlessly circle in the pale blue sky. Even the occasional dull roar of tires on asphalt echoing from the roads adds to this calm splendor; truly, nothing can detract from it. There is a special magic to the Kern River Canyon, a quiet joy that calls to those willing to set foot in its grasses, to wander its slopes. It whispers to us to leave behind our worldly cares, our problems at home and at work, our failures as well as our successes, and accept the quiet counsel of its ceaseless reality.

Climbing-wise, it isn’t Bishop, sure; the landings are not always flat nor the hikes short, the ares are not dense and the threat of poison oak is ever-present. But the brave and the ambitious, those in search of a type of quality that comes not solely from the bouldering but from the spirit of a place as well, they will be rewarded. The scenery is beautiful, the river flows, the mountains are ancient, the trees grow. The climbs are good, maybe even great. And, perhaps most importantly, it is home. So grab a pad and shoes, maybe even some friends, find that climb that calls your name, and learn in the stillness the wordless truth the Kern canyon has to offer.

This blog represents the hard work of a few dedicated individuals whom have asked nothing in return for their labors, least of all recognition. If not out of love for nature then in tribute to them, please respect the areas described here on this blog. Don’t litter. stay on trails, be reasonable with your tick marks, try not to unnecessarily damage vegetation. As climbers we have a special responsibility to the areas we enjoy. We do not own them, but are stewards for their protection and safe keeping. Please keep that in mind; we did not create the land, it created us.