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Mistaken Rock Rock Climbing

Climbing Area Map

Routes in Mistaken Rock

My Wife's Girlfriend T 5.5 4b 13 IV+ 11 MS 4a

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Elevation:	4,397 ft	1,340 m
GPS:	33.9851, -116.1479 Google Map · Climbing Area Map
Page Views:	46 total · 11/month
Shared By:	Chris Lautz on Jan 18, 2026
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

Mistaken Rock is the rear rock formation in the Lost Rocks area.

The only guidebook I have is Joshua Tree rock climbs 3rd edition by Miramontes. I did not find this formation described in the book and therefore am giving it a name in the namesake of the other two main formations at Lost Rocks. If you any have information regarding this formation being previously named, please let me know and I will fix the entry.

Getting There

Follow the California riding and hiking trail from the trailhead at Ryan campground. Once you come across a signed intersection, head left following a faint trail through a wash until you reach a hidden gravestone nestled between two Joshua Trees. Continue past the gravestone briefly. Upon arrival to the Lost Rocks area, you will end up in a wash in front of Misplaced Rock. Walk around climbers right of Misplaced Rock and continue skirting around until you arrive at Mistaken Rock behind it.