Bean Dip offers a demanding but rewarding alternative to the popular Frito Bandito route, located in the rugged Lower Tier of Stonewall Peak, North San Diego County. This single-pitch trad climb invites you to engage with its sharp features and subtle holds, beginning from the left edge of a prominent triangular dark rock formation. As you traverse left onto Frito Bandito, the line veers upward, challenging climbers to mantel a distinctive horn—a move that demands both balance and confidence—before reaching an aged bolt standing as a solitary marker on the wall. The route continues with delicate, thin movements that ease onto a moderately angled slab, where friction and footwork take precedence before merging back onto the established Frito Bandito path.

This climb’s setting on the Lower Tier places you within an exposed pocket of granite, where the afternoon sun warms the rock, but early morning or late afternoon sessions offer pleasant coolness. The approach is straightforward, but the quality of rock requires attention, especially around the horn and slab sections where holds can feel sparse and technical. Protection involves placing traditional gear with care alongside trust in an old fixed bolt, making a solid rack of cams and small nuts essential. Climbers should be prepared for a brief but intense effort, with the route’s 5.9 grade reflecting a measured challenge that’s accessible to those comfortable with technical moves on gear.

Stonewall Peak’s Lower Tier is part of a wider climbing area known for its quiet, scenic escapes and varied terrain. The remote setting rewards visitors with uninterrupted views across northern San Diego’s wild, sun-dappled hillsides. Whether you’re topping out on the slab or admiring the unique shapes of the dark rock around you, this route allows for an intimate connection to the rock’s natural character.

Plan your outing with timing in mind—avoiding the heat of midday to protect grip and endurance—and come equipped with sturdy shoes, a solid rack of traditional gear, and a mindset ready for precise movement and focus. Approaching the climb involves a short hike with some light scrambling, adding to the sense of adventure before you even step onto the rock.

The descent allows for a walk-off in easy terrain, but always watch for loose scree and maintain stable footing on the approach trail. Bean Dip is a route that sharpens your technique and rewards your mental game, providing a concise but rich experience that fits perfectly into a day of exploring Stonewall’s enduring crags.