"Armed and Ready challenges climbers with delicate balance moves along a sharp arete before transitioning into a lieback crack. This short but technical sport climb offers a perfect mix of skill-building and mountain scenery."
Armed and Ready invites climbers to test their finesse on the east side of the arete at Shirtsleeve Rock, a commanding feature within the rugged San Bernardino Mountains. This 40-foot sport climb demands a careful balance of strength and technique, with delicate moves that coax you upward along the narrow edge. The rock's texture offers enough friction to reassure but requires thoughtful foot placement and steady hands to maintain control. Midway, a broad ledge offers a moment to catch your breath, but the challenge is far from over. From this perch, the route shifts into a corner where a lieback crack calls for precise body positioning and controlled pulling power, pushing the climber to blend fluid motion with calculated effort.
The San Bernardino range frames this climb with sprawling forested slopes blanketed by pines that whisper in the mountain breeze, and on clear days, distant peaks stretch toward the horizon. The air here carries a fresh pine scent, mixing with the earthiness of worn granite, inviting you to pause and breathe in the outdoors before the final push.
Armed and Ready’s straightforward single pitch makes it an accessible challenge for climbers who want to sharpen their crack climbing skills and experience the exposed excitement of an arete without the complexity of lengthy routes. The triple-bolt protection paired with a double ring anchor gives a reliable safety net, encouraging confident movement while still demanding respect for the rock’s demands.
Getting to this climb requires traversing from the Running Springs area with a short approach over moderately steep trail sections. Expect a walk through shaded forest paths where rocks and roots punctuate the terrain underfoot, so solid climbing shoes and a loaded pack with water are essential. Early morning climbs bring crisp temperatures and soft light, while midday sun warms the granite, making spring and fall ideal seasons to visit.
Whether you’re a sport climber refining your technique or simply looking to soak in quiet mountain vistas accented by the sound of rustling trees, Armed and Ready serves up a compact adventure. Its blend of technical movement and approachable pitch length make it a noteworthy stop on the Shirtsleeve Rock slab, offering both a tangible challenge and a moment to connect with the San Bernardino wilderness.
Be mindful of the limited bolt placements and maintain control on the arete to avoid falls. The rock can feel sharp on delicate edges, and the exposure leaves little margin for error. Approach paths may have loose debris—exercise caution on approach and descent.
Approach trail can be rocky and root-strewn; wear sturdy footwear.
Climb early in the day for cooler rock and softer light.
Bring plenty of water; the mountain air quickly dries you out.
Check weather for stable conditions—granite becomes slippery when damp.
The route is protected by 3 bolts with a double ring anchor at the top, ideal for sport climbers comfortable with moderate protection and trusting fixed gear.
Upload your photos of Armed and Ready and earn up to 3000 $ADVCOIN tokens.