"Biiru 30 delivers a focused, dynamic climb on Holcomb Pinnacles' granite face, offering big holds and a technical crux that challenges even able sport climbers. Ideal for those wanting a compact route with confident protection in a stunning mountain setting."
Biiru 30 is a spirited single-pitch sport climb that slices through the rugged face of Holcomb Pinnacles, offering a compact but engaging taste of what the Big Bear Lake area's granite can deliver. At 40 feet in length, this route throws a lively challenge that mixes solid handholds with delicate layaways, inviting climbers to engage both strength and technique. The crux, situated around the third bolt, demands precise movement and a careful read of the rock, rewarding those who maintain focus and composure. While some climbers report the grade feeling a bit easier, it’s a sharp 5.10a that tests footwork and body position.
Located in the northern reaches of the San Bernardino Mountains, Holcomb Pinnacles stand out for their imposing profiles and quiet approach trails, offering a climbing atmosphere that marries peaceful forest corridors with broad views of Big Bear’s surrounding ridges. Access to Biiru 30 involves a moderate hike through the Sushi Bar and Pinnacles North sectors, threading through scrub pine and lichen-streaked boulders that crackle underfoot with a dry summer heat.
Protection comes in the form of four well-spaced bolts topped with solid chains, lending a confident feeling to the ascent while compelling climbers to trust their clipping skills between anchors. The route’s bolt spacing encourages smooth rhythm and attentive gear management, making it advisable for climbers to double-check draws and quicklinks before committing. Given its succinct height, Biiru 30 is often used as a warm-up or a quick, rewarding climb on a day’s agenda.
Timing your visit is key: the east-facing wall bathes in morning sun, warming the rock and drying out overnight moisture, but by afternoon it sinks into refreshing shade, perfect for beating the heat during warmer months. The approach trail is well-marked but loose; sturdy footwear and steady footing are essential. Hydration cannot be overlooked here—the pine-scented air lies dry, and cells can drain unexpectedly fast on exposed stretches.
Descending from Biiru 30 is straightforward, with a single rap using fixed chains leading back to the trail below. Be mindful of loose gravel and uneven terrain along the descent path, as the transition from vertical flow to forest floor demands careful attention.
For climbers seeking a solid, concise sport route that balances technical interest with accessible protection, Biiru 30 shines as an honest climb in a picturesque and relatively quiet pocket of the San Bernardino range. Prepare to be fully engaged, both physically and mentally, while soaking in the subtle wilderness presence that this boulder-strewn amphitheater offers. The route may be brief, but its challenges and the surrounding environment linger with you long after the last clip.
Although well protected, the route has moderately spaced bolts that require confident clipping and movement control. The descent involves rappelling onto loose gravel—exercise caution to avoid slips or dropping gear during the rappel.
Start early to catch the morning sun warming the rock for better friction.
Wear shoes with sticky rubber to navigate layaways comfortably.
Double-check quickdraws and clipping technique for safe protection.
Pack ample water and light layers for shade changes on the approach trail.
Four bolts secure the route, finished with solid chains. Bringing draws that manage moderate spacing is crucial, as the bolts encourage smooth clipping through varied moves. No additional gear is needed.
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