PRINT: Rock Climb Caws and Effect, Joshua Tree National Park

Caws and Effect

5.7, Trad, 55 ft (17 m),

Avg: 2 from 15 votes
FA: Brian Spear & Lynn Bowering, 1993
California > Joshua Tree NP > Queen Valley Area > Geology Tour Rd > Geology Tour Rd… > Towers of Uncer… > Crow's Nest

Access Issue: Seasonal Raptor Closures Details

The rock climbing area known as Towers of Uncertainty is closed to public use due to wildlife activity. The closure is usually in effect from March through June

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

Climb the face between Crow's Feet and Eating Crow. Move right almost to Eating crow to reach a thin crack (crux), which slants left across a nice face. Route finishes at top out for Crow's Feet.

Location

The Crow's Nest, Towers of Uncertainty, Geology Tour Road, Joshua Tree National Park.

Protection

Medium stoppers for crux section.

Comments [Hide ALL Comments]

C Miller
CA

5.7

Richard Hechtel and I did this route in May 1995 thinking it was an FA, but it seems it was done even earlier by Brian Spear (Canadian) who named it "Caws and Effect". Apr 21, 2008

Brian Hench
Costa Mesa, CA

5.7

This is is quite amusing. This route keeps changing names: "A Feather in Your Cap" (2008), "Life on Mars" (2000), "unknown" (1995), "Caw's and Effect" (date?). Apr 23, 2008

ghostclimber

I actually do remember doing this route with Lynn Bowering when we worked for OB. I don't remember what we named it, but that sounds good. Time sounds about right as well.

Also in the area I put up two routes on Reef rock - probably the same day. "Lacking Garlic" 5.7 was between I Should be Dancing and Cat's Meow. Around right of Trail of Tiers was Simply climb - 5.8.

Brings back memories ...

Brian Apr 24, 2008

C Miller
CA

5.7

Brian, nice to see you here. I also remember a certain gem called "Chuckwalla, Chalk and Choss" down at Squaw Tank. Apr 24, 2008

Howard
Costa Mesa, CA

Thought the crux was a few balancy almost backdoor moves that continued well into the slanting, airy traverse. A bit hard to read the holds until you're practically upon them. I'm huge on passive pro, much moreso than just about everyone I know, but I thought small cams fit the crux bill best. Protected much more easily than the far left two cracks it seemed. Feb 21, 2017

Sean
Oak Park, CA

liked this one the best on this wall. rare steep exposure at the grade. approx 55 ft to topout Oct 25, 2018