For climbers seeking a brief but engaging test in Joshua Tree’s distinctive granite, Cho offers a direct jaunt up a steep, crack-lined wall on the southwest face of Jellystone. This single-pitch, 25-foot climb demands precise movement through an obvious crack system that culminates in a demanding off-width section. The pink-hued streak that cuts through the rock stands out in the afternoon light, offering not just a route but a challenge against the gritty desert air and sun-bleached stone. The route's relatively short length belies the concentrated effort needed to navigate the varying hand jams and body positions required, especially as the crack widens toward the top.

Approaching Cho means stepping into the boulder-strewn Lost Horse area, where Joshua Tree’s raw, open desert character impresses. The southwest-facing wall basks in morning sun but quickly slides into comforting afternoon shade, providing a natural respite during warmer months. This makes late afternoons particularly inviting for a climb, as the rock cools, and desert breezes shift the dry heat away.

Protection demands serious attention here—large cams up to Purple Camalots are essential to confidently guard the route’s crack variations. An anchor rope is also necessary to establish a safe top-rope setup. The rock’s texture favors solid placements if you commit to the right-sized gear, but the off-width finish doesn’t forgive hesitant attempts, so experience with wider cracks comes highly recommended.

The approach trail to Jellystone Southwest Face is a rugged desert trek, weaving through sandy stretches and low scrub oak clusters typical of the Lost Horse area. Expect a moderately short hike, but bring sturdy footwear capable of handling loose rock and occasional sharp granite edges. Navigating to the base requires some route-finding skill as the terrain shifts between open sun and shaded nooks.

Ideally, plan your climb for spring or fall when desert temperatures balance comfort and climbing conditions. Summer heat can intensify rapidly once the sun peaks overhead, and winter mornings risk biting cold despite the sun’s glare.

Cho rewards climbers not just with the technical satisfaction of a solid off-width finish but the stark beauty of Joshua Tree’s desert environment. Listening for the occasional whisper of wind through scattered yucca, feeling the coarse granite under hand and foot, and knowing the solitude of this less crowded route all add layers to the experience. Whether you’re brushing up on crack technique or chasing an accessible challenge, Cho provides a memorable connection to one of California’s most iconic climbing landscapes.