Climbing Near Pasadena, California

Best weather in Los Angeles according to many. Right up against the foothills with tons of access to local trails. Some decent urban rock to climb and some historic buildering spots as well. Refer to specific spots.

Eagle Rock is a large conglomerate dome located in the San Rafael Hills of Northeast Los Angeles, between Glendale and Pasadena, California. The dome currently hosts thirteen traditionally bolted routes and a bouldering traverse. Eagle Rock is situated on a hillside adjacent to the very small Richard Alatorre Park. The west face of the dome is 120 ft tall and composed of chossy conglomerate featuring protruding cobbles and friable holds, and the occasional pocket. All holds should be considered suspect. Eagle Rock is a historical landmark and while climbing is permissible the fences at the north and south ends with No Trespassing signs indicate the activity is marginally tolerated, by local residents, so keep a low profile and be courteous. Eagle Rock derived its name as the rock casts a shadow resembling an eagle with outstretched wings. Prior to the arrival of english speakers in the 1880's the dome was referred to as Piedra Gorda (Fat Rock). Originally part of the Rancho San Rafael owned by the Verdugo family, the land was later dispersed and the area became the site of the Gates Strawberry Ranch.  The area below the dome is popular as a homeless encampment. Eagle Rock was frequented by the infamous Hillside Stranglers in 1977-78 and later, Richard Ramirez, the Night Stalker. The belay stations at the foot of the rock are relatively flat and comprised of soft dirt and leaves. Massive Oak trees near the dome provide shade during the afternoon and evening.While many have speculated on the origins of climbing at Eagle Rock the Angeles Chapter Rock Climbing Section (RCS) historian has shared that climbing originated at Eagle Rock on November 5, 1933 with Glen Dawson and Dick Jones of the RCS Junior Section. The RCS senior section made their first outing on November 3, 1934 lead by Howard Koster. The RCS hosted 54 outings at Eagle Rock from 1933 through April of 1945. Issues of the RCS Mugelnoos indicate Eagle Rock was utilized for climbing instruction during these twelve years. Many local crags were discovered and climbed at this time; Bee Rock (1934), Sumac Cliff (1935), Tahquitz Rock (1935), Strawberry Peak (1936), Devil's Gate (1936), Pacifico Mtn.(1940), Williamson Rock (1946) and Suicide Rock (1955). From the 134 Freeway eastbound, exit Figueroa and cloverleaf to the right. From the stop drive north 200 yds and under the freeway to parking adjacent to Richard Alatorre Park.Approach- 1 min walk to base from the car. Walk to the east around a low fence and up the hill to the base of the dome.Elevation: 568 ft.   Latitude: 34.139  Longitude: -118.214

There are three boulders in this area. There might be some more further up stream, but I’ve just found three so far. Two of the boulders are pretty close to each other and the other is down a different stream. The boulders are granite and are pretty featured. Some holds are polished smooth, but most are pretty rough. The boulders are nothing special, but worthwhile if you live nearby and want to take a hike after work and get a few short laps in. The closest city is Altadena. From the 210 near La Canada and Pasadena exit Arroyo Blvd/Windsor Ave, head north towards the mountains. Go about one mile and park on the left in the small lot just before the gate and where the road turns right. (Right by JPL). This is a popular parking lot for hikers and mountain bikers and you do not need an Adventure Pass.For the Bridge Boulder and Wall Boulder:From the parking lot after about a mile of walking the asphalt turns to dirt and splits into a Y near some buildings. Stay to the left. Hike another 1/4 mile to the wall boulder, on the right or hike another 1/4 mile past that and cross over the second bridge and go down to the boulder about 10 feet on the left. (Edit 9/2018: As you are crossing the bridge, look down left and you'll see it, make a hard left down at the end of the bridge) For the Canyon Crest Boulder (You can approach this 2 ways):From the JPL parking lot walk 3/4 of a mile, then turn right up the first stream. Then hike about another 1/2 mile, crossing the stream several times and then you’ll see the boulder on the left side.Or the lazy way, exit the 210 at Windsor. Turn right on Woodbury, left up Lincoln, then turn left on Canyon Crest. Go about 1/2 a mile and park in a small turn out on the left or right. Then walk down into the canyon and downstream and you’ll see the boulder.