Northern California Affairs

After a slight finger injury, I've been hesitant to commit my weekends to sitting in the car with the risk of further injuring myself. I'm in a constant mental limbo. Trying to decide whether I should take a break from climbing, I can't do it. I HAVE to climb. I’ve spent most recent weekends climbing locally trying to take it easy. Staying close to home the past few weekends has been quite the rewarding and humbling experience. My injuries have improved and I’ve gotten the opportunity to climb in areas I’ve been neglecting.  

First stop, Yosemite Valley. Pulling into the park, I couldn’t believe it had been over a year since I took the time to climb in such a wonderful place. Yosemite reminds me how grateful I am to live in Northern California. It's hard to believe how many people don't visit Yosemite. Before I unearthed my love and passion for Bishop, I frequently climbed in the valley. Since I had been absent over the last year, I thought it would be most appropriate to spend the day climbing classics in the over populated, and over climbed Camp 4. Unfortunately, the sun was out and heat was radiating off the valley floor. Not the most ideal weather for climbing. Enjoyable nonetheless.

The mysterious YNP Ranger armed with a smile and clipboard.

 Getting tunnel vision heading toward the valley floor.

 Sophia Lampi reaching at full extension on The Force, v9

Jacob Padilla on the classic Bruce Lee, v8

The following weekend was spent close to home climbing the never-ending eliminates of Mortar Rock and relaxing with friends. For me, climbing at Mortar Rock is most often extremely humbling. The sharp unforgiving rock and strong movement equates to very stout lines. Like Yosemite, temperatures were not ideal for climbing. 

Perhaps the best part about Mortar Rock and the neighboring Indian Rock is the atmosphere. Both areas are highly populated with local climbers as well as families enjoying the view of the Bay Area. Climbing with friends and strangers is the best part of climbing. This "mini crag" is always buzzing with new climbers who are looking to share their experiences and learn from others. 

 Tabitha Enanoria pausing for a smile on Nat's Traverse, v8

 Charles Padilla eyeing the gaston on Don't Worry Be Snappy, v12

Charles Padilla on the opening move of The Odyssey  Sit, v12

Jacob Padilla sending New Wave, v9/10

Lastly, my brother and I made the quick commute to Castle Rock. Due to skin loss and a flapper from Mortar Rock, I was not climbing. Although I wanted to, my tips wouldn't allow it. Instead, Charles Padilla was the lone climber.  
Sitting on the sidelines reminded me how climbing is such an amazing sport to spectate. Witnessing the effort, frustration, dissatisfaction, and success with each and every attempt is fascinating. It allows you to find common ground with others while understanding what the individual is experiencing while climbing. Whether you're a climber or you've never climbed a day in your life. Stay tuned next week Monday for an update on Bishop this coming weekend!

Charles Padilla making quick work of Bate's Eliminate, v10

Olmec Apparel

Giddy Organics

Gnarly Nutrition

Photos courtesy of:

Jacob Padilla

Instagram - Jacob Padilla (_jpadilla)

Email - padillajkub@gmail.com

Please note that I am not a writer, photographer, or professional climber.  I’m the average climber sharing their photos and thoughts. All feedback, questions, and comments are greatly appreciated. Thanks for your time.

-Jacob Padilla