Anti-Jello Crack at Dome Rock offers a compelling mix of sustained finger cracks and technical slab climbing along four pitches that reward climbers with both challenge and scenic views. Starting just above a large pine tree, the route immediately invites you into a shallow horizontal ledge that marks the base of the stunning finger crack on the first pitch. The climb then evolves into a left-leaning finger crack on pitch two—a section celebrated for its consistent difficulty and clean, featured slab that demands delicate footwork and precise hand jams. As the crack narrows, climbers must shift from jams to face holds, maintaining focus through each move to reach a hanging belay anchored by bolts.

Pitch three turns the attention to a left-facing dihedral. Its corner transitions from positive jams to a more technical crux in the last 30 feet, where small gear placements—particularly tiny TCUs and stoppers—are essential for safety and progress. The final pitch guides you up moderate terrain, following a horizontal crack to a belay below Dome Rock’s Tree Route, tying into a well-traveled descent.

The rock itself is solid and offers excellent protection placements, but bringing extra TCUs and small stoppers is necessary due to the tapering nature of the cracks and the placement challenges on the third pitch. This traditional route demands a diverse rack and a balanced combination of finger strength and precise foot technique. The moderate elevation gives way to breezy winds and the scent of pine, creating an atmosphere that feels alive and responsive to each move.

Located in California’s Southern Sierra, Dome Rock is a climbing area characterized by vast clearings and old-growth pine, where the needled forest floor cushions your approach. Climbers can expect about a 20 to 30-minute walk from the parking area along a well-maintained trail, winding through quiet woods and rocky outcrops. Timing your climb in the morning or late afternoon avoids the intense midday sun that can heat the slab sections uncomfortably. The 550-foot length offers a solid half-day commitment, and given the multipitch nature, route-finding and smooth transitions between belays are key.

Plan for a rack heavy on small to medium-sized protection, including a generous selection of TCUs for the crux sections. Layout your gear for easy access since the dihedral on the third pitch will force you to make precise placements on the move. Hydration is crucial here; the exposed sections offer little respite from the sun during warmer months, and the elevation gain means your system works steadily but predictably over the climb.

Anti-Jello Crack blends technical climbing with a striking route that tests your ability to read both rock and protection. It remains a rewarding choice for climbers looking to sharpen their traditional skills while experiencing the enduring beauty of the Southern Sierra foothills. This route is equally suitable for seasoned climbers seeking a crisp 5.10a testpiece or adventurous intermediates ready to push their limits on sustained hand jams and slab moves.