The Lost Universe seems aptly named, although it might have better received the name of the previous rock, Crag at the End of the Universe, sitting as it does on the southeast flank of Keller Peak, overlooking the valleys below which lead back to Riverside. The views from this ridge are spectacular and so the ridge itself, with Lost Universe jutting from the edge, as it first comes into view along the trail. Most of the climbing in the San Bernardino mountains takes place at crags that are very near a road; Lost Universe requires something of a more adventurous spirit. Although there are few existing routes, it is well worth the hike – for the views, for the excellent granite, and for the solitude so lacking elsewhere, even if only for a day.
Getting There
To “find” the Lost Universe, follow the trail from yellow post campsite 7 to Crag at the End of the Universe. Leave the trail and hike around to the left and up from the right end of Crag at the End of the Universe, following the stream bed to the top of the ridge to the southeast. From this area you will see Lost Universe for the first time. Head slightly left (northeast) across openings in the flora and find a trail into the scrub. The summit of Keller Peak is up to the left. The trail ends at a series of boulders leading up and left. Watch carefully for cairns. When the boulders reach their highest point, head back down to the right (southeast) across more boulders, looking for cairns along the way. The “trail” turns to the left in front of the last boulder. It should be obvious that further progress down the mountainside is not possible on the right side. At this point, you can see the top of the north end of the crag. Find your way down on the left (east) side of the crag, navigating heavy brush and rock. When you’re no longer getting scraped or wondering how far down is the next foot placement, welcome to the Lost Universe! Allow 30 to 40 minutes hiking and bushwhacking from Crag at the End of the Universe.
The Classics
Mountain Project's determination of some of the classic, most popular, highest rated routes for Lost Universe:
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