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Planet X Pinnacle Rock Climbing

Climbing Area Map

Routes in Planet X Pinnacle

L › R R › L A › Z

	Inept Tune TR 5.10b 6a+ 19 VII- 19 E2 5b
	Planet Claire T 5.10d 6b+ 21 VII+ 21 E3 5b
	Planet X T 5.8 5b 16 VI- 15 HVS 4c
	Planet Y T 5.9 5c 17 VI 17 HVS 5a
	Saturn Sheets T 5.9 5c 17 VI 17 HVS 5a R
	Venetian Blinds TR 5.10a 6a 18 VI+ 18 E1 5a

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GPS:	33.99607, -116.15558 Google Map · Climbing Area Map
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Shared By:	C Miller on Feb 14, 2005 · Updates
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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

East of The Love Nest and on the south side of the boulder field containing Planet X (V6 R) the boulder problem is this free-standing pinnacle of rock with routes on every side.

The south face is home to Planet X (5.8) a nice hand crack to face, Planet Y (5.9) another crack to face is on the west face, the thin and crimpy Subway To Venus (5.11d) is on the shady north side and the east face hosts the mysterious Planet Z (5.11a).

With it's various aspects this is a pinnacle for all seasons that sees very little traffic as the nearby boulders are the main attraction in this area. Well worth a visit if only to enjoy the view of the surrounding desert from the hard-earned summit.

Getting There

Park along the Sheep Pass Road in a paved turnout due west of The Love Nest and follow the marked trail to the Love Nest (5 minutes). Continue past the Love Nest, heading east, to another clump of rocks several hundred meters away.

Once you reach the western edge of the rocks (you'll see a distinct pyramid-shaped boulder with a slabby left side) make a sharp right and follow a lesser used path that circles around to the south side of the boulders. Once on the south side, follow the trail east for about 60 meters and the distinctive crack of Planet X (5.8) will come into view.

Plan on 10-15 minutes for the approach.

6 Total Climbs

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Classic Climbing Routes at Planet X Pinnacle

Mountain Project's determination of the classic, most popular, highest rated climbing routes in this area.

5.8 5b 16 VI- 15 HVS 4c 105 ● Planet X Trad
5.9 5c 17 VI 17 HVS 5a 58 ● Planet Y Trad
5.10d 6b+ 21 VII+ 21 E3 5b 7 ● Planet Claire Trad