PRINT: Rock Climb Body Stem, Joshua Tree National Park

Body Stem

5.9+, TR, 40 ft (12 m),

Avg: 2.5 from 23 votes
FA: Owen The Scot, 1989
California > Joshua Tree NP > Central Joshua… > Sheep Pass Area > Oyster Bar Area > Conrad Rock > Conrad Rock - Heart o…

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

This unusual route climbs the corridor Heart of Darkness is located in, first as a chimney that's stemmed, and eventually as a full body chimney (think shower rod) with both hands on one wall and both feet on the other.

Perhaps leadable, but there's not much in the way of pro unless gear is placed in the Heart of Darkness crack. Done as a TR it's a novel route to do while in the area.

Protection

Photos [Hide ALL Photos]

Why? Cause it's there.

...the day Ian pulled his groin.

press!

R.Shore on the body stem

Comments [Hide ALL Comments]

Ryan Franz
Boulder, CO

We found it was possible to climb this route no hands all the way to the top--get into a stem and jump your way up. Gets a bit wide towards the top, but it's doable if you've got the legspan. Pretty weird, but good practice for El Matador! Feb 14, 2006

Nick Haha
Choosing the path less trav…

Wow, what a really good unique route. Getting to bodynthr whole length is such a unique treat, reminded me of canyoneering. There’s only one anchor for these 3 climbs and is at the top of heart of darkness. Once set, you can top rope this and HOD. Leading the jungle to a run out slab will also get you to the anchor to set a top rope for this. Feb 26, 2024