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The Morrissey Crag Rock Climbing

Climbing Area Map This is our best guess at this area's location.
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Routes in The Morrissey Crag

L › R R › L A › Z

	Last of the Famous International Playboys T 5.11c 6c+ 24 VIII- 24 E4 6a R
	You're the One For Me, Fatty T 5.10c 6b 20 VII 20 E2 5b

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GPS:	34.0835, -116.1406 Google Map · Climbing Area Map
Page Views:	2,443 total · 9/month
Shared By:	Vernon Stiefel on May 19, 2003
Admins:	Greg Opland, C Miller, Gunkswest, Mike Morley, Adam Stackhouse, Salamanizer Ski, Justin Johnsen, Vicki Schwantes Page Updates (admin only)

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Access Issue: Climbing Regulations/Seasonal Raptor Closures Details 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. A permit is required to replace or add new bolts: nps.gov/jotr/planyourvisit/…

Seasonal Closures:
The presence of a nesting owl in very close proximity to a variety of climbing routes, "Right On," "Orange Flake," "Kid Caligula," requires closure until the nest has been abandoned to ensure the protection of the species for the duration of the nesting activities. This closure will be in effect from February 17, 2026 until June 7, 2026; or until the nest has been abandoned.

The presence of a prairie falcon nesting in very close proximity to a variety of climbing routes requires closure of "Fat Freddie’s Cat,” “Freak Brothers Dome,” “The Weenie,” “Pea Brain,” and “The Red Obelisk." This closure will be in effect from February 17, 2026 until June 7, 2026; or until the nest has been abandoned

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

Description

Two trad routes have been recently established on this crag on the ridge high above The Bulkhead that can be seen from the parking area. You're The One For Me, Fatty (5.10c) is a hand, fist, offwidth extravaganza on the north face (1 out of 5 stars) and The Last Of The Famous International Playboys (5.11c R) ascends two very thin discontinuous cracks on the east face (2 out of 5 stars).

Getting There

Approach as for The Bulkhead but remain east of the gully until encountering three large dead pine trees above The Bulkhead. From this point head west across the gully to the top of the ridge. The Morrissey Crag is distinuished by its sheer orange north facing wall. The Valley of Kings is easily accessed from this point by continuing west through a narrow gap between small rock formations.