Just a few miles east of Lone Pine, within the sprawling expanse of California’s Alabama Hills, Chuck Chuck Chuckwalla stands as a concise but compelling challenge for sport climbers seeking a taste of slab climbing against a backdrop of rugged desert terrain. The route begins on the left flank of a broad slab, where a quick scramble sets the stage for the first clip below a small bulge. This move requires steady footwork on positive edges, testing balance and commitment early on. From there, the climb unfurls along a slender pillar riddled with patina-coated plates that offer surprisingly solid holds in an otherwise sparse setting. The rock’s texture invites you to sink your fingertips into its smooth yet grippy surfaces, while the arid breeze sweeps past, keeping the midday heat manageable.

Above the pillar, the route continues through seven more bolts, threading a line over flakes and edges that demand mindfulness; several flakes have a hollow feel and should be approached with caution. The route’s 105-foot length makes it a brief but focused endeavor—perfect for climbers wanting a quick outing with enough technical interest to sharpen slab techniques. Protection comes from a series of 12 fixed double ring Fixe bolts, which provide reliable anchors but remind climbers to maintain accuracy in clipping and movement.

Access to Chuck Chuck Chuckwalla is straightforward though the approach requires a short but uneven scramble up the slab’s left side to reach the base. The landscape surrounding the climb is dominated by weathered granite pillars and open desert vistas, giving the experience a raw, untamed edge. One practical word of advice is that rappelling is the safest descent method. Attempting to descend the fall line deposits climbers into a rugged gully scattered with large blocks, demanding an awkward and exhausting scramble to exit the corridor safely.

This route is best enjoyed in cooler seasons or morning hours, when the eastern light casts shadows that offer some relief from the harsh sun. Sturdy climbing shoes with excellent edging capability will make all the difference here, as will a solid quiver of quickdraws for the closely spaced bolts. For those who appreciate short routes that combine technical footwork with thoughtful gear management, Chuck Chuck Chuckwalla offers a neat slice of the Alabama Hills’ climbing repertoire without the crowds or extended commitment.