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Split Boulder Climbing

Climbing Area Map

Routes in Split Boulder

L › R R › L A › Z

	Blurb V-easy 3
	Canasta V0- 4-
	Euchre V-easy 3
	Faro V1 5
	Fish V-easy 3
	Old Maid V-easy 3
	Sakura V2 5+
	Solitaire V0 4
	Solitairey Confinement V1-2 5

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Elevation:	4,300 ft	1,311 m
GPS:	34.00254, -116.14998 Google Map · Climbing Area Map
Page Views:	7,476 total · 34/month
Shared By:	C Miller on Mar 11, 2008 · Updates
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

The aptly named Split Boulder lies just south of King Dome and is neatly cleaved into two seperate halves with a large and healthy juniper tree on the backside.

There are over half a dozen problems here ranging from V-easy to V2 with flat landings and nice views of the desert. The lack of traffic makes it well worth the short hike from the parking area.

To descend the left side of the boulder downclimb the shorter left side via an obvious hole and to descend the right side of the boulder head back through the juniper tree tunnel and off the backside.

Getting There

Hike out to King Dome and head for the south side (left end) where you'll find the boulder on the west face of a clump of rocks. The approach takes 10-15 minutes from the parking area.