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