May 20, 2019 — Bishop Peak requires a small section of Class 5 (YDS 5.6, 5 bolts plus anchors) to reach the true summit (the west summit). Most people head over to the Class 2 east summit, but I wanted the actual peak. I was disheartened, knowing I didn't want to free solo a 5.6, and without knowing anyonenearby who knows how to sport belay, I almost didn't attempt the peak. However, I dragged my friend Andrew along who lives in San Luis Obispo.
We started up from some suburban street, which I suppose is one of the couple trailheads to access Bishop Peak, and took the switchbacks to the saddle between the east and west summits. After a narrow and poison oak encroached social trail, we pulled a couple of Class 2/3 moves to get to a nice view of San Luis Obispo framed by rocks. We put our gear down and I taught Andrew how to lead belay at the base of the summit block. I normally wouldn't do something this sketchy, except that it was a 5.6 and I was really confident I wouldn't fall. I also forgot quickdraws, so I made a couple alpine draws with slings and extra carabiners and had to alternate each bolt, down climbing and climbing back up. Let's just say I'm glad we didn't have any adults around for all our silliness. Though, he was a fast learner and we took our very sweet time. It was fine.
The 5.6 was short and sweet and the summit block had really nice views of the area.
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