Aaron's Vertical Blog: April 2016

This isn't really a trip report per say, more of a photo montage of Tollhouse Rock. I'll admit, Tollhouse is a pretty special place to me. Sure it's climbing is mostly slab, and sure there are better views in Yosemite, but there is almost something I can't put in to words about how I feel when I'm at Tollhouse. I can only hope that some of my pictures taken over the past seven years can express more of emotions I felt instead of just another landscape or 'rock' photo.

I was first introduced to this small rock location in 2009 by Mark Haymond. It was my second time to ever rope up on technical rock and after being beaten down the previous time in Yosemite, I had my hesitations. Mark took me to the warm up slab followed by an amazing trek up the 5 star classic Tollhouse Traverse. Although rated a cruiser 5.5 it is considered by most as the BEST 5.5 in California. I've perhaps put in over 15 ascents of the Traverse in following seven years. I'll stand by that claim. IT IS THE BEST 5.5 IN THE STATE!

Here is Mountain Project's description of da house', "Tollhouse Rock is a 600' granite dome located about an hour northeast of Fresno, at 4000' in the foothills between Fresno and Shaver Lake. A stellar winter weekend destination (or day-trip for us locals), it has some of everything -- sport routes, multi pitch trad and run out face, and a little bouldering. The views of the Sierras and the valleys unfolding below the dome are fabulous."

(Photo Credit: Dave Daly)

There is something about being the the Sierra foothills during the springtime. Anyone who has spend time roaming the foothills during this magical time knows what I'm talking about. Lush green grasses, bright blooming wild flowers, babbling creeks, stunning high Sierra snow capped peak, and warm sunny days. All factors listed above and many more make Tollhouse just an incredible place to spend the day.

I'll be the first to admit that the climbing isn't really too much to write home about. It would be rare to see a non central valley climber here but I suppose that also makes Tollhouse what it is. There is usually no one else out on the rock with you. Yeah, spring time there may be another party on the weekend but doubtful you'll run across each other.

Below is a collection of some of my better photos of Tollhouse over the past seven year. All photos are mine unless noted. Again, there are some photos that have great landscape aesthetics but more importantly these photos have great emotional value to me. For an example, my first lead climb ever. Some photos where taken during a period of my life when I was having a lot of up's and down's in my personal life. Coming out to the house' and immersing myself was always very therapeutic.

The photos are in no chronological order, so i'll present them in certain groupings. Sit back, relax, and enjoy the show that is Tollhouse.....