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Another Quaalude For Elvis

Twentynine Palms, California United States
finger crack
bolted belay
desert
single pitch
Joshua Tree
5.9 crack
trad protection
Length: 60 ft
Type: Trad
Stars
Pitches
1
Location
Another Quaalude For Elvis
Aspect
South Facing

Overview

"A focused trad pitch in Joshua Tree’s Cave Corridor, Another Quaalude For Elvis challenges climbers with a left-leaning finger crack leading to a short face guarded by bolts. Perfect for climbers seeking pure crack climbing amid the stark desert backdrop."

Another Quaalude For Elvis

Another Quaalude For Elvis is a focused, single-pitch trad climb tucked into the rugged embrace of Joshua Tree’s Cave Corridor. The route demands steady hands and keen eyes as you trace a left-leaning finger and hand crack, a slender path threaded through solid desert rock. The crack’s natural flow pulls you upward, leading to a brief face section anchored by two bolts that punctuate the ascent with a touch of sport climbing security. At the summit, a bolted belay allows for a confident rappel or safe anchor for top-rope sessions.

Set within the Sheep Pass Area, this climb offers a concentrated burst of Joshua Tree’s iconic desert granite. The rock here is firm but textured, its surface alive with subtle features that challenge your balance and precision. The surrounding environment hums with the desert’s quiet intensity—dry winds teasing the sparse vegetation, and shifting shadows marking the passing day. As you climb, the warmth of the sun on the stone contrasts with the cool breeze drifting across the open terrain, a sensory reminder of this wild, arid landscape.

At 60 feet in length and rated a solid 5.9, Another Quaalude For Elvis presents a manageable yet engaging test for climbers comfortable with finger cracks and traditional gear placement. The protection includes the essentials—standard rack supplemented by two bolts that provide both security and flow. The bolted belay at the top is a welcome feature in this remote area, easing the descent and allowing for safe turnaround points. Preparation is key for success; light, flexible footwear is recommended to feel the subtle holds along the crack, and hydration is essential in the desert’s dry conditions.

Approaching this route involves a straightforward hike through the Cave Corridor Area, a stretch of Joshua Tree that offers relatively easy access compared to some of the park’s more remote zones. The terrain is a mix of compact dirt trails and occasional rocky stretches that keep your footing engaged without becoming hazardous. This accessibility makes Another Quaalude For Elvis a practical choice for climbers looking to maximize time on the wall without an arduous approach.

For climbers seeking a traditional route that blends technical crack climbing with the raw, open desert feel of Joshua Tree, this climb provides an invigorating challenge. The combination of natural protection placements and fixed bolts strikes a balance between trust and skill, making it an excellent option for a focused afternoon pitch. Whether you’re honing your crack technique or simply craving the clarity of desert climbing, Another Quaalude For Elvis invites you to test your mettle against its granite spine.

Climber Safety

Pay special attention to the bolted belay anchors and inspect them before trusting your weight. Some ledge areas near the top can be loose, so avoid sitting or placing gear on unstable blocks.

Route Details

TypeTrad
Pitches1
Length60 feet

Local Tips

Start early to avoid the midday desert heat and enjoy cooler rock temperatures.

Hydrate well before and after the climb; water sources are scarce in this area.

Wear shoes with good smearing ability for the face section above the crack.

Use a helmet; loose rock can occur near the belay anchor.

Route Rating

Difficulty
5.9
Quality
Consensus:The 5.9 rating feels true to form with the finger crack demanding attentive gear placements while the face section introduces a smoother but still challenging crux. For climbers familiar with Joshua Tree’s granite, this route is approachable yet sharp enough to keep focus, without unexpected difficulties.

Gear Requirements

Bring a standard trad rack with a focus on smaller cams and nuts to protect the finger crack, plus quickdraws for the two bolts. The belay/rappel anchor at the top is fixed and bolted for smooth descent.

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Tags

finger crack
bolted belay
desert
single pitch
Joshua Tree
5.9 crack
trad protection