HomeClimbingAll I Need Is a Hula Hoop So People Don't Wonder

All I Need Is a Hula Hoop So People Don't Wonder

Mammoth Lakes, California USA
sport
crux move
short climb
Eastern Sierra
mussy anchors
technical footwork
Length: 35 ft
Type: Sport
Stars
Pitches
1
Location
All I Need Is a Hula Hoop So People Don't Wonder
Aspect
South Facing

Overview

"This brisk single-pitch sport climb on T J Swan Cliff offers a playful yet technical challenge, with moderate climbing punctuated by a sharp crux near the second bolt. Ideal for those sharpening their 5.9 skills against a stunning mountain backdrop."

All I Need Is a Hula Hoop So People Don't Wonder

Perched on the far right edge of T J Swan Cliff, this single-pitch sport climb offers a blend of playful movement and unexpected challenges against the dramatic backdrop of the Sierra Eastside. The rock here is solid, yet the route keeps you alert: the difficulty fluctuates in an engaging way, making it a good test for climbers who enjoy subtle shifts in effort. Beginning with easier climbing that hovers around 5.9, the true push arrives just before the second bolt, where a crux move demands a precise and committing ten-a effort. It's a handling move that feels distinct from the rest of the climb’s rhythm, forcing you to engage your balance and footwork sharply.

The entire route stretches about 35 feet, a brief but intense burst of vertical challenge that rewards concentration and commitment. Above the crux, the terrain relaxes, letting you savor the exposure and sweeping views toward T J Lake and the greater Mammoth Lakes Area. The rock’s texture invites confident smearing and controlled pulls, making the finishing moves feel smoother, even as you catch your breath after the crux.

Protection is straightforward: six quickdraws will get you smoothly clip through to the mussy anchors, making this a convenient choice for a sport climbing day in a remote setting. The approach is easy enough for a quick climb session, allowing you to balance adventure with efficient logistics. The cliff sits at a latitude of 37.5934 and longitude -119.0071, offering clear skies and crisp mountain air, especially rewarding on cool, clear days.

This climb’s character is defined by its gap-toothed difficulty: mostly moderate but haunted by that sharp crux that surprises even seasoned climbers. It invites you to refine your technique rather than simply punch through power moves. Ideal for a mid-level sport climber looking to build confidence in a secluded but accessible setting, the route here isn’t about endurance but precision and poise. With its playful name reflecting the route’s quirky personality, it beckons climbers ready to face a little unpredictability without the risk of overwhelming commitment.

It's best tackled when temperatures are mild; the rock can warm quickly in intense sun yet stays cool during morning or late afternoon sessions. The exposure also means wind can sweep through unpredictably, so packing layers is wise. Footwear with excellent edging and sensitivity will help you lock into those subtle holds around the crux. Hydration is key; even a short climb in this rugged Sierra terrain demands respect for the altitude and dry air.

Overall, "All I Need Is a Hula Hoop So People Don't Wonder" offers a compact, engaging sport experience framed by stunning natural beauty and just enough severity to test your skills without overwhelming. It’s a climb that pairs well with other nearby routes, rounding out a day of exploration and focused movement in this lesser-traveled eastern Sierra pocket.

Climber Safety

Be cautious around the crux section where holds are fewer and more technical; a fall here could swing you into awkward rock. The mussy anchors are fixed but inspect gear before trusting, and approach the cliff with care as the terrain can be loose near the base.

Route Details

TypeSport
Pitches1
Length35 feet

Local Tips

Start early to avoid afternoon heat, as the cliff faces the sun during the afternoon.

Wear shoes with sensitive edging to navigate the subtle holds near the crux.

Pack layers; the mountain breeze can cool you down quickly despite sunny conditions.

Hydrate well beforehand since the altitude can increase dehydration.

Route Rating

Difficulty
5.9
Quality
Consensus:At 5.9, the route feels accessible but contains a surprisingly stiff crux rated closer to 10a, elevating the challenge. Most climbers will find the majority of the moves manageable, with the crux demanding precise technique rather than raw power. Compared to other local climbs in the area, it’s lighter on sustained difficulty but sharp on technical demands.

Gear Requirements

Six quickdraws are needed to clip the bolts and reach the fixed mussy anchors safely. The protection is well-spaced but consistent, allowing confident clipping through a short but varied lead.

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Tags

sport
crux move
short climb
Eastern Sierra
mussy anchors
technical footwork