"Branded offers a clean, 70-foot sport climb carved into the distinctive granite of Alabama Hills. Its tight seam and bulging crux give a satisfying balance of movement and mantle, perfect for those seeking focused technical challenges under wide-open desert skies."
Branded crackles with subtle challenges amid the wide-open expanse of California's Alabama Hills. This 70-foot sport route unfolds along a crisp seam that gradually tightens into a bulge, where the angle steepens and demands commitment. The granite here is firm and textured, offering solid holds that reward precision and balance more than raw power. As you pull over the bulge, the face opens up again, peppered with inviting edges and pockets that invite calculated movement.
The approach itself sets the tone for a straightforward adventure. Situated west of the Sierras, The Oasis area basks in morning sun but benefits from cooling breezes that ease the heatache in summer. After a short stroll over rock-strewn paths, the route greets you with wide skies and slanted rock faces that evoke a quiet sense of freedom. While the star rating averages on the lower side, the distinct character of this climb includes a crux that requires refined body positioning rather than brute strength. This makes Branded a solid choice for climbers looking to sharpen sport climbing technique in a rugged yet accessible setting.
Gear-wise, the climb is protected by seven reliable bolts spaced to justify a steady pace without sprinting through the moves. Two-ring Fixe anchors provide a straightforward and secure top-out with no fuss. The fixed gear encourages confidence, but the spacing means a good head for clipping mid-route will keep your rhythm intact. Footwear with sticky soles will feel at home here; the rock texture invites edging and delicate smearing.
Timing your outing in the early morning or late afternoon will help you avoid the harsher sun, with fall and spring offering ideal temperatures and light winds. The surrounding terrain, dominated by rugged boulders and sagebrush, carries a dry, scent-driven atmosphere heightened by occasional winds that animate the sparse vegetation, almost daring you forward.
Branded's location within the Alabama Hills offers a blend of remote wilderness feel with easy reach from Lone Pine, making it a prime spot for adventurous climbers who appreciate solid sport routes without the crowds. After your send, linger a while to take in the panoramic views of the Sierra Eastside, where jagged peaks meet open desert sky.
While the bolts are well-maintained, the spacing between protection requires careful attention to clipping early in the bulge section to avoid unnecessary falls. The granite often features sharp edges—manage rope drag on lead. Also, keep an eye out for loose rock near the base and the approach trail, especially after wind or rain.
Arrive early to avoid the midday heat; the wall warms quickly under the sun.
Wear sticky-soled shoes to take advantage of delicate edges and smears.
Plan your clip sequence before reaching the bulge to maintain flow through the crux.
Check weather forecasts for wind patterns—afternoon breezes cool but can affect balance on exposed moves.
The climb is secured by seven placed bolts capped off with a solid two-ring Fixe anchor. The bolt spacing demands steady but confident clip strategy, making a standard sport rack with quickdraws sufficient for safety.
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