Beloved Climbing Rock Discovered 1,700 Miles From British Columbia Home
SQUAMISH, B.C. — A small granite rock that has long been a fixture and favorite among climbers in British Columbia has resurfaced more than 1,700 miles from its original home, sparking curiosity and delight within the climbing community. Known affectionately as “Portable,” the rock served as a key landmark at the base of the Superfly boulder in Squamish, often used by climbers to hone their balance and grip techniques.
For several years, Portable was a familiar presence to visitors and locals alike, until it suddenly vanished without explanation. Its disappearance left many puzzled, until recent social media posts on Reddit suggested the rock had been spotted at the Iron Man bouldering site in Bishop, California. This unexpected relocation has intrigued climbers who knew Portable well.
Ethan Salvo, a 23-year-old climber from Squamish, was on a trip in California when he heard rumors of Portable’s new whereabouts. He enlisted a friend climbing near Bishop to investigate, and she confirmed the rock’s identity, noting its distinctive shape and the quirky additions of googly eyes and a “really sick hat.” Salvo recounted to CBC News, “The minute I saw the shape, I knew it was it. It just looked like home. It felt like home. It weighed like home.”
Despite its journey, the rock remains in good condition, albeit a bit greasy from its travels. After a quick cleaning, Salvo said Portable was ready to be returned to its rightful place. The mystery of how the rock traveled such a great distance remains unsolved, but climbers are relieved to have it back in their community.
Portable’s story resonates with the broader climbing culture, where landmarks and boulders often become symbols of camaraderie and personal achievement. The rock’s unexpected adventure highlights the close-knit nature of the climbing world, which spans regions and even countries.
Climbing enthusiasts interested in the cultural and environmental aspects of the sport can find resources and community updates through organizations such as the U.S. Forest Service, which manages many climbing areas in the western United States, and the British Columbia Mountaineering Club, which supports climbers in the region.
For those curious about bouldering safety and best practices, the National Park Service provides guidelines and information to ensure responsible climbing. Additionally, climbers can explore conservation efforts and local regulations through the Angeles National Forest, which oversees many popular climbing destinations near Bishop.
As Portable prepares to make its journey back to Squamish, the rock’s tale serves as a reminder of the unexpected stories that can emerge from the outdoor community, uniting climbers across vast distances through shared passion and adventure.
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