Easiest beginner crags in San Diego County

What are some of the easier spots in San Diego? I've spent a little time in the gym, but really want to explore outdoors. Please advise. Thanks.

Mission Gorge has some easy stuff, and you can set up topropes without much difficulty.

There's not many crags in SD in general.

Mission Gorge is a good place to start for sport climbing. Poway Crags is another decent spot for sport and toproping, albeit farther away. Santee Boulders is another good spot to play around on the rock, preferably if you have a crash pad.

If you are new to climbing, I would recommend "How to Rock Climb" by John Long. It's an invaluable resource. Climbing outdoors is much different from going to the gym, and there is a lot to learn.

steverett wrote:There's not many crags in SD in general.

There are plenty of crags if you're up for a hike and can lead multiple pitches on bolts or gear.

If you're looking to toprope only, your choices are more limited: Mission Gorge is probably your best bet but there's some easy single pitch stuff at Corte Madera that's toprope-able, more if you can lead on bolts.

Thanks folks!

Dixon lake is a good option too, especially to practice slinging trees and boulders. The 3 minute walk is pretty sweet.

Mission Gorge, to me, would be the obvious first place to check out. Get to woodson soon too for anchor building and crack climbing practice.

I would never advise a new outdoor to climber visit a place like Corte Madera. You're a long way from help if shit goes down in there.

If you don't have access to a local guidebook, visit climbingtoposofsandiego.com/ for good route info.

Danny P wrote: I would never advise a new outdoor to climber visit a place like Corte Madera. You're a long way from help if shit goes down in there..

Ditto!!! Don't bother going out there since you're so new.

Definitely go to Mission gorge. Lunch rock has quite a few easy routes for a newbie. Girlfriend and I are headed out there on saturday morning(5th). She's a rookie. If you have a partner & gear, I can lead and set you up on a top rope.

Bleh! Sorry, didn't mean to suggest it as a destination for the newbie, only that moderate single pitch sport that is toprope-able exists there.

So ya, don't go there unless you're with someone who's keen to the game.

Mission control 5.7 at Mission Gorge son.  My first sport lead.

Man Johnny it's been a long time!!