"Arrowsphere delivers a sharp 45-foot sport climb on the right arete of Pinnacle #2, offering solid 5.9 moves set amid the remote beauty of Lake Arrowhead Pinnacles. With an engaging crux and reliable protection, it’s a prime choice for climbers looking to combine challenge and solitude."
Arrowsphere offers a compelling single-pitch sport climb set against the rugged backdrop of the Lake Arrowhead Pinnacles, located within the sweeping expanse of the San Bernardino Mountains. The climb perches on the right arete of Pinnacle #2's north face — a sharp, clean edge that challenges both balance and technique. The approach begins in the meadow to the south, where a faint but steady climber’s trail leads you north toward the skeletal outline of the Skull formation. Skirting the Skull’s western flank, hikers find themselves weaving through a network of faint paths and light scrambling as they cross a narrow corridor to reach the north faces of Pinnacles #1 through #6. Identification is straightforward here—Pinnacle #2, home to Arrowsphere, stands second from the left, marked by its distinct vertical lines and aretes.
The climb itself is a 45-foot sprint of concrete sport climbing, protected by four well-placed bolts that create a secure yet engaging line on the right arete. The rock is solid, with textured surfaces that invite finger jams and crimps, requiring a deft sense for foot placement. The route culminates at a two-bolt anchor equipped with chains, perched on the pinnacle’s summit for both safety and a satisfying end to the ascent. Arrowsphere demands a moderate commitment with its 5.9 rating; the crux lies on the steep arete where precision and composure meet. It's an excellent choice for climbers seeking solid 5.9 sport climbing in a quiet, slightly off-the-beaten-path setting.
The surrounding terrain amplifies the experience — pine-scented air drifts through the trees while the San Bernardino ridges roll in a distant horizon, sharp against an endless blue sky. It's a place where the rock feels alive, daring you upward with every hold. Despite its rugged look, the approach trail is manageable but requires attention to navigation as the faint paths and corridor transitions can be tricky first time. Time your climb for the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the midday sun, since the north-facing wall holds shade during these windows and the pine canopy nearby offers further relief.
For the adventurous, the Lake Arrowhead Pinnacles are a reminder that great climbing doesn’t always mean crowds—here, solitude meets raw mountain character. Pack plenty of water and approach shoes that can handle uneven, rocky terrain. Although it's a relatively short approach, loose rock and some scrambling may slow progress, so plan accordingly. Whether you come for the sharp fingers-on-edge challenge or the serene mountain setting, Arrowsphere stands out as a satisfying climb that balances thrill with straightforward access.
Be cautious on the approach; the paths are faint and require careful navigation, with loose rock in the scrambling corridor. At the top, the fixed anchor is solid but don’t hang directly on the nuts or edges near the pinnacle’s summit to avoid rock fall.
Approach involves faint trails and some light scrambling; sturdy hiking shoes recommended.
Start early or late in the day to benefit from shade and cooler temperatures.
Bring plenty of water—no reliable sources near the climb.
Watch for loose rock on the approach; test holds carefully during the scramble.
Four bolts protect the pitch, ending at a two-bolt chain anchor atop the summit. Standard sport climbing gear and a 60-meter rope will suffice.
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