All Locations > California > Joshua Tree NP > Central Joshua… > Barker Dam Area

The Black Rocks Rock Climbing

Climbing Area Map

Areas in The Black Rocks

Black Rocks Black Face 17 / 0 / 4 / 0 / 0 / 0 / 0 / 0 / 21

Black Rocks Short Face 2 / 0 / 1 / 0 / 0 / 0 / 0 / 0 / 3

Black Rocks Tan Face 13 / 0 / 9 / 0 / 0 / 0 / 0 / 0 / 21

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GPS:	34.02731, -116.13062 Google Map · Climbing Area Map
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Shared By:	David Evans on Mar 5, 2003 · Updates
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See Weather Forecast

Access Issue: NEW RESTRICTIONS Details

nps.gov/jotr/parknews/dam_v…

Access Issue: Climbing Regulations/Seasonal Raptor Closures Details

The Joshua Tree National Park Superintendent's Compendium states that:
1. Vegetation is not allowed to be used as an anchor.
2. Only neutral or rock colored bolt hangers are allowed.

For a complete list of climbing rules and closures visit:
nps.gov/jotr/planyourvisit/…

Description

The Black Rocks have more than 40 routes on three main sectors. The cliff gets afternoon sun and is a good cold day destination. Conversely, the cliff is generally in the shade first thing in the morning, making it a possible spot in warm weather (watch for snakes).

There are three main sectors described here from closest to furthest from the road:

-The main Black Face that is closest to the road has over 20 climbs.

- The smaller, Tan Face further left (northwest) has roughly 20 climbs.

-The short cliff with several thin cracks is further left (toward Queen Mountain) and has roughly seven climbs.

The approach from Bighorn Pass Road takes between 5-15 minutes of flat walking depending on which sector you go to.

Getting There

This area is located off Queen Valley Road/Bighorn Pass Road, about a half mile east of the turn off for Wall Street Mill/Wonderland Ranch. When driving from Hidden Valley, follow the paved road and signs for Barker Dam. Just before you reach the Barker Dam parking lot, turn right onto a dirt road (Bighorn Pass Road). In roughly 240 yards you'll see a sign and dirt road on the left for Wall Street Mill. Continue roughly east on Bighorn Pass Road and park in a small (1-2 car), designated dirt pullout on the right. Directly across the dirt road is a small rocky hill.

Roughly 1/4-mile ENE of the small parking spot is a northwest facing hillside with dark-colored cliffs. These cliffs are the Black Rocks. From the small pullout, cross Bighorn Pass Road and walk over to the base of the cliffs (about 10 minutes of flat walking).

The most obvious cliff is fairly large and dark colored. About 75 yards further left is a smaller, mostly tan colored cliff.