Less Known Rock Climbing Spots in Southern California
If you’re searching for an adventure when rock climbing in Southern California, there are plenty of lesser-known spots worth exploring. Some are only a short drive from major cities, while others seem so remote that they feel like hidden treasures.
These places provide some of the finest rock climbing in the area.
Holcomb Valley Piccancles
Los Angeles offers some of the most breathtaking rock climbing spots. Popular areas such as Granite Canyon and Quartz Monzonite provide high quality granite faces for sport routes and bouldering challenges alike.
Holcomb Valley Piccancles is an ideal climbing spot for both beginner and expert climbers alike, located in the San Bernardino Mountains near Big Bear.
Within a 2.5-3 hour drive of Los Angeles, this area offers outstanding climbing. Most routes are bolted with some trad and top rope challenges available as well.
To reach the Pinnacles, take 3N07 (Holcomb Valley Camp Road) north until it veers right and you pass many campers, dirt bikes, hippies and Wilbur’s grave on your left.
Tahquitz Rock
Tahquitz, one of the birthplaces of modern rock climbing in America, makes for a great first-time visit. With nearly year-round ideal climbing weather, it’s no wonder why this crag attracts climbers from across America.
The Trough was originally rated 5.0 in 1936 but has since been upgraded to 5.4, making it an excellent place for beginners in California granite climbing. There is a range of routes available here from simple single-pitch trad pitches up through longer multipitch sport routes.
Climbers may want to check out Fingertrip, a four-pitch route on Tahquitz’s northwest face that is less challenging than The Trough but still requires plenty of exposure and skill in protecting yourself while climbing.
Malibu Creek State Park
Malibu Creek State Park in the Santa Monica Mountains is an ideal climbing destination. Climbers here have access to challenging routes such as Planet of the Apes Wall and Rock Pool.
This park, situated six miles inland from Malibu Beach, offers plenty of trails for hiking, fishing, mountain biking and horseback riding. Plus the creekside scenery and numerous man-made lakes make this an ideal camping destination!
Archaeologists have recently uncovered the site of Talepop, home to thousands of years ago to the Chumash people. Their village dates back thousands of years and is believed to have existed here before the Chumash arrived in North America.
Malibu Creek State Park is a paradise for climbers and outdoor adventurers due to its stunning views, hiking trails and camping facilities. However, hikers should plan ahead by booking a campsite ahead of time – especially during summer when temperatures can soar up to 100 degrees Fahrenheit.
Mount Baldy
If you’re searching for an undiscovered rock climbing spot in southern California, Mount Baldy is worth exploring. Nestled within the San Gabriel Mountains, it may not be as popular as some of its nearby rivals but it still provides excellent climbing opportunities.
Los Angeles county’s highest point, Mount Baldy is renowned for being a popular hiking destination and offers beautiful views of the city and San Gabriel Mountains beyond.
Hiking Mount Baldy in winter can be treacherous due to deep snow covering its summit. To ensure a safe journey, it’s best to start hiking before winter storms arrive and be prepared for whatever conditions await at the top.
