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Congratulations

5.10d R, Trad, 60 ft (18 m),  Avg: 2.8 from 138 votes
FA: Unknown 1979, FL: Jonny Woodward
California > Joshua Tree NP > Hidden Valley Area > Real Hidden Valley > Thin Wall
Warning Access Issue: Climbing Regulations/Seasonal Raptor Closures DetailsDrop down

Description

Approach Thin Wall's east side. Toward the left (south) end of the east side, near the wall's highest point, you will see a broad 3-foot roof with two tiers split by a crack. The right side of this roof is higher than the left. Congratulations climbs a system of small and insecure face holds and a seam to reach the crack at the roof, then charges through the roof on better holds. Turning the roof and establishing yourself above it is the fun and gymnastic crux.

Beta Hint- I actually got my foot stuck so badly over my head there that it was difficult to remove once past the crux sequence.

The route is rated 5.11a in the Vogel guide, but I felt that the route was more on par with the smattering of 5.10c routes I did than with the other 5.11a routes. Like most of the lines at Thin Wall, this one can be TR'd by setting an anchor from above. Odds are that one will be already there when you arrive if it is a weekend. I have only bummed a TR on this, and have not led it.

Protection

Figuring out what sparse protection might fit should not be a terrible task to undertake. The crux in and of itself, at the roof, can be protected by cams.

2 bolt anchor on top.

Photos [Hide ALL Photos]

Congratulations to Steve Thomas for flashing the route.
[Hide Photo] Congratulations to Steve Thomas for flashing the route.
Pull the roof!
[Hide Photo] Pull the roof!
Steven K. getting to the roof in style
[Hide Photo] Steven K. getting to the roof in style
I liked this climb a lot. Chalking up for the crux.
[Hide Photo] I liked this climb a lot. Chalking up for the crux.
"Pancho" ticking another 5.11/5.10d at age 13. Photo taken by his dad.
[Hide Photo] "Pancho" ticking another 5.11/5.10d at age 13. Photo taken by his dad.

Comments [Hide ALL Comments]

[Hide Comment] I've done easier 11A's: Iron Cross, Valhalla. So I have to hang with 11A. May 1, 2004
Adam Stackhouse

  5.10d
[Hide Comment] Valhalla and Iron Cross were easier? Well so is Swept Away and one of those Banana Cracks. Such a Savage is easier too. Jun 9, 2004
C Miller
CA
  5.10d R
[Hide Comment] Nice thin face down low to cruxy roof moves higher up. A bit harder and more technical than Child's Play. May 4, 2006
A Johnson
Atascadero
 
[Hide Comment] Good new anchor bolts. May 10, 2021
[Hide Comment] This is a fun top rope! There are two beefy bolts on top making it easy to set up. Dec 8, 2021