2024
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Summer Gardens (Jardins d’Ete)
In May 2024, we climbed at the Summer Gardens crag for three days, enjoying moderate routes. The area features flat ground with rows of rocks, making it an ideal climbing spot. Despite encountering challenges, such as a large centipede and hot sun, we successfully climbed several routes each day before moving on.
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Sous La Via aka Regression
On May 18, 2024, we began climbing at Todra Gorge, choosing a well-bolted crag named Regression/Sous La Via. The routes were moderate and suited our abilities, offering a gentle start to our trip. The climbing was enjoyable, with hand pockets and edges. Afternoon sun made it too warm to continue, so we planned an earlier…
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Castle Rock at Belle Campground
The Belle Campground, near Joshua Tree National Park, offered new and challenging climbs, with Castle Rock’s moderate routes. But locating the campground proved tricky, and the climbs presented unexpected challenges. Despite the difficulties, the experience was fulfilling, with lessons learned and plans for more climbs in the coming days.
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Indian Cove Campground
We revisited Indian Cove Campground and explored Feudal Wall with its popular top ropes. After trying a 5.4 climb on the Short Wall, we rappelled down and moved to Pixie Wall and King Otto’s Castle. The 5.6 climb at Campfire Crags provided the most enjoyment. We also considered a challenging 5.6 climb at Moosedog Tower…
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Short Wall, Right Side
We spent a day at Short Wall in Indian Cove Campground, testing crack climbing techniques. We tried 5.3 and 5.6 routes, using top rope to practice foot and hand jams. The 5.6 route also incorporated face holds. We found the walk-off easy and concluded that the approach was simpler than expected, with various trad and…
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Morbid Mound
We visited Indian Cove Campground on a less busy weekday. We tried Morbid Mound and struggled with the climbs, realizing the challenge of crack climbing. We learned new techniques, and felt excited to try crack climbing again. The area features natural anchor setups and easy walk-offs, making it suitable for top roping.
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Asian Fever Buttress
We explored the Asian Fever Buttress, seeking adventure and new challenges. Facing unexpected difficulties, we navigated tricky rock formations. Despite the day’s unexpected obstacles, we successfully completed our climbs and safely descended, feeling proud of our accomplishments and newfound knowledge.
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Mustang Ranch
Dan and I decided to climb at Mustang Ranch near Bear Island. Dan led the 5.6 route “Chicken Ranch” smoothly. When I attempted the climb, I struggled but eventually found my rhythm and completed it. The climbs at Mustang Ranch require gear placement and building a natural feature anchor. Accessible from Boy Scout Trail, it’s…