The "Bard-Harrington" is one of California's steepest and longest ice routes, so much so that it is almost synonymous with California ice climbing.

2008: The route did not formed as the water source, a leaking penstock (water pipe), was repaired by the hydoelectric plant.

For a detailed overview of Lee Vining Canyon go to this page:
Lee Vining Canyon

Getting There

Take CA SR-120 (aka Tioga Road) west from US-395 just south of Lee Vining and about 25 miles north of Mammoth. Follow CA SR-120 for about 3 miles from 395 until just before you reach the closed gate where you will turn left on to Poole Power Plant Road. Then turn immediately right and continue westward up the canyon for about 2 miles until it ends at the Southern CA Edison Power Plant. Park in a lot about 100 yards away from the station for maintenance crews. Hike on to the snow just beyond the chain link fence and up the canyon. Head generally up into Lee Vining Canyon for about 45 min, depending on snow conditions, until you see the first flow on your left. At first you will be to the left of a stream, then right, and finally left.

Route Description

There are various routes on this flow some WI3 to WI4. The first pitch is somewhat moderate. The second pitch has vertical sections. The third pitch you start to get ledges to rest on.

Exit to climbers right for a walkoff. You can traverse on a narrow ledge from the tree (might want to keep roped) or climb another pitch above the tree and hike off right.

Essential Gear

Screws and more screws. Might be possible to use a few rock pieces if you climb left or right sides.

External Links

Guiding service, current conditions etc.
Sierra Mountain Guides

Climbing community group which schedules trips to Lee Vining Canyon
California Mountaineering Group