PRINT: Rock Climbing in Leisure World, Joshua Tree National Park

Leisure World

California > Joshua Tree NP > Indian Cove > Rattlesnake Canyon > Rattlesnake Wash Hill…

Access Issue: Temporary Closure in effect from April 3 to June 15, 2024 Details

Temporary Closure for Nesting Raptors
Date Posted: 4/4/2024
Due to the presence of nesting raptors, the following rock climbing areas are temporarily closed: Slatanic Area, Rattlesnake Buttress, Margaret Thatcher Spire, The Stepping Stones, The Bulkhead, The Dunce Cap, and Commissioner’s Buttress.

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

With one of the easier approaches and a couple dozen moderates this is a fantastic spot to check out the delightfully unique rock found in this area.

Routes here range from 5.6 to 5.10+ in difficulty and are primarily sport bolted.

Getting There

Located on the left side of the hillside and approached from a different parking area than all of the other routes in the area.

Drive 0.6 miles from the Short Wall and park in a sandy turnout on the left side of the road; take care not to block the gated road which leads to an old quarry; the parking area is also 0.4 miles from the Rattlesnake Canyon parking area at the end of the paved road.

Hike east, crossing a wash, and then head up the somewhat steep and loose hillside to the formations - watch out for ball bearings underfoot!

Approach times vary from 10-45 minutes for the various crags of the area.

Photos [Hide ALL Photos]

Tucker Tech on Drinkin' Buddy.
<br>
Photo by Blitzo.

Tucker Tech on Drinkin' Buddy. Photo by Blitzo.

Leisure World in late afternoon light.<br>
Photo by Blitzo.

Leisure World in late afternoon light. Photo by Blitzo.

Leisure World Overview, Joshua Tree NP
<br>

<br>
A. The Stadium
<br>
B. The Sofa
<br>
C. Stubble Face
<br>
D. Schlitz Pillars
<br>
E. Leisure Palace

Leisure World Overview, Joshua Tree NP A. The Stadium B. The Sofa C. Stubble Face D. Schlitz Pillars E. Leisure Palace

Comments [Hide ALL Comments]

Blitzo

I've done about four routes in this area and though the rock is somewhat unique to Joshua Tree, I wasn't overly impressed.
It's worth a visit though and the approach isn't bad. Watch out for ticks! Aug 22, 2010