Tucked just left of Joshua Tree's main south face routes, 3rd Class It offers a compact but intense climb that invites those with a taste for desert trad moves to test their skills on steep black patina. From the desert floor, this route begins with a bouldery approach, requiring a committed pull into a smooth, varnished bowl that demands focus and precision. The climb quickly leads you under a prominent hand-sized crack, complemented by a smaller finger crack overlapping to its left. These cracks are the heart of the route, challenging your ability to read the rock and place protection confidently, as some loose crystal fragments lurk in the lower hand crack. The move out of these cracks is the true crux—the final hurdle before topping out.

Though brief at 35 feet and consisting of just one pitch, 3rd Class It rewards a direct style and sharp technique, offering a moment of solo excitement for those who seek it. Protection is fundamental here; the route requires a rack including nuts and a selection of cams ranging from finger to hand size to secure tricky placements along the steep face. Your grip will be tested against the desert’s smooth patina, which can be unforgiving, so steady footwork and precise body positioning come into play.

Access is straightforward, starting from Indian Cove Campground inside Joshua Tree National Park. The approach is short—a few minutes from established campsites—making it an excellent pick for climbers looking for a quick blast of desert trad in a stunning and rugged landscape. This area is defined by its stark beauty: the desert sun casts harsh shadows over blackened rock, and the surrounding boulders hum quietly under the wind’s persistent push.

As one of Joshua Tree’s less-traveled routes, 3rd Class It encourages a focused, self-reliant mindset. Pay particular attention to the loose crystals in the hand crack—testing every hold before committing is essential to stay safe—and be ready for a committing exit move that demands confidence and strength. The route’s short length masks its intensity, making it a satisfying challenge for climbers who want a taste of desert trad without the commitment of longer climbs.

Timing your ascent for early morning or late afternoon helps avoid the full brunt of the sun, as the steep slab faces absorb the heat quickly. Bring layered clothing to adjust to temperature swings common in the high desert and plenty of water to stay hydrated amid the dry air.

3rd Class It is a precise desert offering: quick to approach but demanding in execution. Whether you’re ticking it solo or with a partner, this short climb will sharpen your crack skills and deepen your appreciation for Joshua Tree’s unique blend of stark landscape and subtle rock character.