Located within the rugged expanse of Joshua Tree National Park, Blackheads offers climbers a straightforward yet engaging trad route that captures the raw character of the desert landscape. This route ascends a series of stair-like blocks that challenge your footwork while rewarding with clean movements across textured patina. The climb demands a careful eye for subtle features, guiding you rightward toward a well-placed bolt that signals the climb’s first real test. From there, a few grainy step-ups press you higher, punctuated by bolts that mark confident protection points. The line veers left and climbs into a layback crack, where opportunities for pro placements open up in both horizontals and the crack itself—a satisfying puzzle of gear and body positioning. For those seeking a smoother finish, the cleaner crack topping out just to the right, known as Blackheart, offers an elegant alternative. Protection is limited but reliable: two bolts lead to a shared two-bolt anchor with Blackheart, creating a secure and straightforward descent point. The climb’s 45 feet are packed with a blend of gritty friction, precise body movements, and the wide-open exposure familiar to Joshua Tree. As the sun climbs overhead, the rock’s warm patina invites firm holds and steady foot placement, making the route accessible to intermediate climbers ready to push their comfort on 5.9 PG13 terrain. Approaching Ken Black Memorial Dome involves a short hike from Lost Horse Road, walking over desert sandstone strewn with cactus and brittle scrub that crunch beneath boots. The climb’s compact length means it pairs well with neighboring routes for a full day of desert adventure, balanced by Joshua Tree’s distinct sunburnt silence and the steady desert breeze that cools the effort. The route highlights the park’s characteristic combination of friction climbing and fragile cracks, requiring both boldness and grace to ascend cleanly. Blackheads is a vivid example of Joshua Tree’s offering—accessible, technical, and set within an iconic southwestern landscape that shapes climbers as much as the rock itself.