Bathsheba presents a focused, single-pitch tradition climb that threads its line on the dramatic cliffs of The Weeping Wall area at Suicide Rock, part of the iconic Tahquitz & Suicide Rocks region in Southern California. This route stretches roughly 90 feet up steep granite, offering a climb that is as straightforward in length as it is demanding in technique. Positioned just to the right of the final pitch of the nearby Sampson route, Bathsheba catches your attention with its sharp arete and face features that require attentive footwork and steady hand jams. The route culminates at a pine tree belay, a natural anchor that blends into the rugged landscape, offering a brief moment to breathe in expansive views of the surrounding rock formations and chaparral-covered hills.

The granite here carries the unmistakable texture of Tahquitz: solid yet slightly polished, a result of decades of climbers ascending this storied wall. Protection is a balanced mix of three bolts and traditional gear placements that can accommodate pro up to 1.5 inches, requiring climbers to be comfortable with both fixed and removable gear. The approach to the route is accessible enough for a day trip from nearby towns but still rewards with a tangible wilderness feel.

In climbing Bathsheba, you engage with a route that demands focus—not just on technical moves, but on reading the subtle transitions between the face and arete sections. The 5.9 grade marks this route as approachable for experienced beginners brushing into intermediate territory, or as a warm-up pitch for seasoned climbers working on their trad skills in California’s desert granite. The Weeping Wall offers a fresh breeze and dappled sunlight filtering through sparse pine branches, framing your climb with touches of calm and the ever-present sense of wildness.

For those planning the ascent, timing is crucial. Mornings bring the crisp air and shaded rock that help you sustain stamina, while midday can shine with relentless reflected heat—particularly in summer. Footwear with sticky rubber is essential given the interplay of finger cracks and face holds, while a lightweight rack that covers essential sizes keeps your pack manageable without sacrificing safety. Stay hydrated and carry enough water for both the climb and the approach, as desert conditions can dry you out faster than expected.

Descend through a straightforward walk-off or scramble down the approach trail, taking care on loose sections that reward controlled steps more than speed. As the pine needles rustle below and the afternoon sun dips, Bathsheba remains a satisfying climb that combines the adventure of traditional protection with the beauty of Southern California’s high desert granite.

This route rewards those who value both the efficiency of their gear and the rhythm of their movement, establishing Bathsheba as a must-do pitch for trad climbers exploring the Suicide Rock area.