The Asylum

Description 

A somewhat hidden but easily accessible corridor that is home to several high quality routes well worth seeking out. The most notable routes here are Shock Therapy (5.10c) a route up steep buckets to a very Josh-like steep slab and Split Personality (5.11d) a classic balancy arete to thin face with good rock. Despite the area's proximity to the Hall Of Horrors this can be a good area to escape the usual crowds there.

Getting There 

Park in the paved pullout midway between Ryan CG and the Hall Of Horrors, on the east side of the road. A distinct trail with Access Fund markers leads to Target Rock where the trail splits; a right will take one past Conrad Rock (Heart Of Darkness) to the upper entrance of the Asylum while a left will lead past the north side of Target Rock and up a rocky notch to the Asylum.

Featured Route For The Asylum

Split Personality 5.11d  CA : Joshua Tree National Park : The Asylum

Visible from the parking area, this distinctive arete is perhaps the best route in The Asylum and fully worth the short hike to access it.The lower section is a balancy, sharp arete which gives way to an easier middle section. The crux comes at the very end with small edges on excellent rock, and while possible to "escape" left and make this a little easier, the better rock and moves lie straight up. Great rock, excellent position and engaging te...[more]