Here’s Where To Rock Climb Inside Joshua Tree national Park
Joshua Tree National Park is a desert wonderland that is a paradise for rock climbers. With more than 8,000 climbing routes, there is something for every skill level and style of climbing.
Here are our top spots to rock climb at Joshua Tree National Park:
1. Jumbo Rocks Corridor
Located in the heart of the park, Jumbo Rocks is a great spot for rock climbing. The campground is surrounded by massive boulder formations, many of which have established routes. This area is particularly popular for bouldering, with routes that range from V0 to V13.
One of our personal favorite climbs within Jumbo Rocks is the Jumbo Rock Corridor which is visible to the eye from the trailhead and runs in a north south direction.
The Corridor offers some cool and shady routes (established and unclimbed) due to its starting (southern) section being a bit wide (maybe 60 feet) that then narrows to about 15 to 20 feet wide. The known routes can be found on the west or left side of the Corridor, and regardless of which route you opt for do note that the descent can be tricky.
To access the Corridor travel to Jumbo Rocks campground and park near the end of the loop. A short trail will lead you into the corridor.
2. Wonderland of Rocks (South)
The Wonderland of Rocks (aka The Wanderland) area is a maze of large boulders and rock formations, making it a fun and challenging place to climb. The routes here range from easy to difficult, with some of the best climbs located on the South side.
One route we recommend is Mental Physics, named after Mentalphysics, a spiritual retreat center located on the western edge of Joshua Tree, right off Highway 62. Mental Physics has two pitches:
P1: Climb 100' of sweet jamming to a bolt anchor (5.7, 100 feet); and
P2: Face climb up and slightly left past one bolt to the top (5.7 PG13, 80 feet).
To get here travel right at Echo Rock as if going to Barker Dam. Bypass the Barker Dam trailhead and turn right to go towards the Desert Queen Mine. Bear left onto another dirt road where you will find a parking area with an outhouse.
3. Echo Cove
This area is located on the south side of the park, and it's known for its classic crack climbs. If you're a fan of traditional climbing, you'll love Echo Cove. There are plenty of routes here for beginners and advanced climbers alike.
Offering a number of solid climbs is the South Face Rock Wall that is close to where you’ll park when arriving to Echo Cove. We’d recommend climbing here early in the morning especially if visiting during the warmer months due to its southwest aspect. The climbing varies with both bolted and gear protected lines and routes ranging from 5.6 to 5.12. The most well known climbs here include: R.M.L. (5.9), Sitting Here in Limbo (5.9), Axe of Dog (5.10a), Out on a Limb (5.10b), C.S. Special (5.10c), Possessed by Elvis (5.10c) & The Riddler (5.12a).
Upon arriving at Echo Tee parking lot, look towards Echo Rock’s West Face. The closest rock at the entrance’s left side is the right most end of South Face of Echo Cove Rocks. Parking in the optional lot just north of the "tee" parking lot, will place you at the left end of its base.
No matter where you decide to climb in Joshua Tree National Park, be sure to bring plenty of water, sunscreen, and a good pair of climbing shoes. And of course, always follow Leave No Trace principles to help preserve this beautiful park and its amazing formations for future generations to enjoy.
Happy climbing and let us know in the comments other rock climbing spots that should be added to the list.