Set against the stark, sunbaked expanse of Joshua Tree National Park, Call of the West commands attention with its solitary presence on the south face of Willit Pillar. Here, the desert’s dry winds cut sharply over the rock, carrying a faint scent of creosote and warm granite that anchors you to one of California’s most iconic climbing destinations. Approaching the route from the Indian Cove Campground, the path leads across sandy terrain dotted with hardy desert brush, the crunch of boots on sand and stone punctuating the silence. This single-pitch climb stretches approximately 90 feet of compact cracks and textured granite, offering trad climbers a chance to engage with the rock in a raw, elemental way.

The route’s main challenge centers on a right-leaning crack located on the upper section of the face. This crux demands focused breathing and precise movements as you slide cams into narrowing fissures and lean into the slab, the rock's rough surface pressing under your fingertips. Medium to medium-plus sized cams are essential here, ensuring confident protection placement on this technical portion. As you ascend, the desert sun beats down unforgivingly, so timing your climb during early morning hours or late afternoon can help avoid overheating and maintain grip.

Call of the West pairs a straightforward approach with a subtly demanding line, rewarding climbers who come prepared. The route’s moderate rating of 5.9 represents solid climbing with a few moments that push your technique and mental focus, especially on the angling crack that defines its character. While not overly long, the 90-foot pitch requires attention to footwork and gear placement, making it a great introduction to trad climbing in Joshua Tree or a satisfying challenge for climbers refining their crack skills.

Joshua Tree’s natural landscape extends beyond the climb, encouraging adventurers to soak in the vast sky and distant mountain silhouettes once on the rock. The area's arid heat calls for ample hydration and sun protection before and after the climb, while sturdy approach shoes and a light pack keep the trek manageable. Whether you are tuning your technique or aiming to enjoy a memorable desert ascent, Call of the West provides an accessible route with enough edge to hold your interest amid one of California’s most evocative climbing scenes.