OZ  Photos:  Recent | Best | Popular Elevation:  4,000' Page Views:  12,245. Good page?    Administrators:  C Miller, Adam Stackhouse, M.Morley, Sam Vanderhyden, Tom Erickson Submitted By:  C Miller on Dec 16, 2009 Make this area a Favorite What's New  Printer View Add Area  Add Photo  Add Comment  Add Event

Gabe gingerly stemming his way through the lower c...

Description 

OZ is a large and somewhat remote area down the road from Split Rocks that offers a good selection of routes scattered about numerous crags. Approaches vary from crag to crag, but expect a thirty to forty-five minute walk on average. Some of the crags require hiking over rough and rocky terrain to reach, and ticks can be present in the washes at certain times of the year. The slightly lower elevation and rugged terrain of the area make this a good bet to escape the crowds of the western part of the Park as well as another alternative for those cold days.

The standout crag in OZ is Emerald City, which offers the best concentration of quality climbs and is home to such gems as The Rattler (5.10c), Snake Book (5.10d), Sonic Temple (5.11a) and Yellow Brick Road (5.11c). Some of the other crags offer a few high quality routes, but be warned that the rock quality varies considerably from rock to rock.

A nice area to visit and escape the crowds of Hidden Valley and such; this part of the Park always seems quiet and has a remote feeling to it.

Getting There 

Check the individual crag pages for detailed approach information.

The Classics

Featured Route For OZ

The Rattler 5.10c  CA : Joshua Tree National Park : ... : Emerald City

This is the attractive crack that splits the left side of the wall and passes through a flared section midway up. A must do route if in the area, this features steep and clean jamming with great gear. One of the recommended crack lines in the area along with Baby Rattler and Snake Book. ...[more]   Browse More Classics in CA

Photos of OZ Slideshow

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Dave Stoner on the sharp end. FA party on Yellow B...

Dave Stoner leading 2nd ascent of Over the Rainbow...