Choshawk, often known by its less flattering nickname "Rotten Worthless Route," offers an unpolished but rewarding test of trad skills on the storied rocks of Joshua Tree National Park. This single-pitch 70-foot climb starts with a shallow, bottomed-out crack just right of the iconic Hawk’s Nest. The crack feels honest and raw, its parallel-sided slots inviting fingers and hands to seek secure placements amidst flaring sections that demand careful judgment. The rock’s gritty texture is a constant companion—rough and tactile—reminding you that this route isn’t about polished finesse but gritty determination and steady commitment.

The real challenge awaits mid-route in a tricky crux—a flare that forces a narrow, awkward move followed by a balancy mantle that tests core tension and foot precision. The climb’s character lies in these moments where balance and technique supplant brute strength. Protection is straightforward, mostly in the range from .5 to 4 inches, with the recommendation to carry doubles in the 1-2 inch range as life insurance against the varying crack widths. Anchor placements vary in size, offering options that require confidence and a keen eye.

Approaching Choshawk drops you into the heart of the Hawk Hatchery within Joshua Tree, a place that offers wide-open desert views, golden light filtering over rugged boulders, and a sense of solitude despite its popularity. The approach is manageable but demands respect for the desert heat and rugged terrain—proper footwear with stiff soles is essential to negotiate the rocky ground, and ample water will guard against Joshua Tree’s relentless sun.

Choshawk isn’t a climb for those after perfect holds or easy ratings; it’s a route for the climber eager to embrace the natural, weathered landscape in all its rawness. The route’s moderate 5.10a PG13 rating can feel slightly stiff where the crux forces precise body positioning on marginal holds. Local climbers compare it to other technical cracks in the park but emphasize its unique personality born from gritty rock and subtle movement.

In planning your climb, aim for early morning or late afternoon sessions to avoid the sun’s full blast, as the east-southeast aspect offers little protection at midday. Descending is straightforward via a walk-off scramble, but loose scree and rocky footing on the trail make cautious steps mandatory. With the right gear and mindset, Choshawk makes for a compelling outing where the desert’s rugged character is felt intimately beneath your fingertips. It’s a climb that rewards patience and precision, cloaked in the stark beauty that defines Joshua Tree.