What do legends, eagles, and climbing dreams all have in common? They converge at Lover’s Leap near Lake Tahoe.
This week, host Charlie Pankey sits down with Petch, a longtime climber and guide who lives just steps from the base of this iconic Sierra cliff. Together, they explore:
The history and mythology behind Lover’s Leap (Did they jump?)
Climbing for beginners and advanced climbers alike
The unique geology that makes the Leap feel like “climbing a ladder”
Tales of guiding first-timers and watching them soar
Stewardship and wildlife, including peregrine falcons and golden eagles
Other climbing gems in the area like Phantom Spires, Sugarloaf, and Calaveras Dome
What to expect at this summer’s Lover’s Leap Festival
And the joy of sharing climbing with community
Whether you're a climber, hiker, or Sierra explorer, this episode delivers a rare inside look at a place where adventure and story meet.
🧗♂️ Learn more or book a guided climb: https://www.loversleap.net
🎧 Subscribe to hear more Sierra stories: Sierra Rec Now Podcast
Spotify Chapters:
[00:00] Welcome + “Did They Jump?”
[02:59] Petch’s Climbing Origins
[05:44] Lover’s Leap Routes & Ratings
[08:55] Phantom Spires, Sugarloaf, Calaveras Dome
[12:01] Wildlife & Falcon Conservation
[15:40] First-Time Climbers & Guiding Joy
[17:30] The Climbing Community
[20:23] History: Pony Express to Present
[22:37] Exploring the Area Around the Leap
[25:28] Guide Services + Lover’s Leap Festival
[28:12] Popcorn, Gear, & Where Petch Climbs When He’s Off Duty
