Y, The Rock Climbing

The "Y" is a narrow portion of lower Los Alamos Canyon with 45' climbs on both sides and an intermittent stream flowing through it. It is one of the better choices for basalt climbing in Los Alamos/White Rock in the summer, because the canyon is relatively peaceful and cool, though the south-facing wall is in the sun most of the day. You can seek out sun or shade as you desire- but most of the climbs are on the north (south-facing) side. The "Y" is more novice-friendly than many other areas in White Rock, but still contains enough interesting routes for those of all abilities.

It's a popular toproping area, though many of the climbs can be led. You'll need to bring gear to set anchors on most climbs.

What's that smell? That peaceful stream is effluent from the waste-treatment plant for Los Alamos (the town, not the lab). This area occasionally flash-floods, also.

There are many petroglyphs in this area. Please don't climb on them or right next to them, and certainly don't damage them or do other dumb things. Access has been closed in too many other areas in the southwest US for climbing too close to petroglyphs. There's 300+ other climbs in White Rock.  Some people appreciate these cultural resources and hikers sometimes come in this canyon just to see the rock carvings.