"City Slickers is a compelling 65-foot sport climb in California’s High Desert that blends slab movement with crack climbing. Perfect for those seeking a well-protected, single-pitch challenge with striking desert views."
City Slickers offers an engaging 65-foot sport climb set against the rugged backdrop of California's High Desert, within the layered terrain of The Dude Ranch. This route stands as a gateway for climbers ready to blend technical slab movement with a distinctive crack feature. Approaching the climb, the sun warms the worn rock while a dry desert breeze brushes past, balancing the heat and lending comfort as you gear up.
The climb begins on a slab that demands careful footwork, blending confident smears with precise hand placements as you ascend past the first bolt. Soon, the rock offers an inviting, clean crack whose textured edges beckon you upwards. Here, the route challenges honesty and technique. The crack is the climbing’s backbone, asking for focused jamming and balance.
Reaching the mid-section, City Slickers shifts character—the crux lies in a measured move right from the crack onto vertical face holds. This transition rewards controlled strength and solid foot positioning, revealing the rock’s lighter hue under the desert sun. The anchors come into view overhead, firmly set at the climb’s conclusion, ready to catch you for a smooth belay.
Today’s chip of protection comes courtesy of well-spaced bolts and a reliable chain anchor. With a single pitch to conquer, City Slickers fits nicely into a half-day climbing plan. The route’s exposed position on the west side of Box Canyon West catches the late afternoon light, perfect for those who prefer climbing when shadows soften the sun’s intensity.
Beyond the route itself, the surrounding High Desert area gives a sense of openness and solitude. The landscape here is shaped by vast rocky plateaus, desert scrub, and endless blue skies, where the earth feels broad and free. Whether this is your first 5.10a or a stepping stone back to sport climbing, City Slickers balances approachable difficulty with a rewarding sense of movement and flow.
Practical considerations: Water is a must in this arid environment, especially during warmer months. Footwear with sticky rubber benefits the slab, while a light rack of quickdraws suffices given the bolt-protection. Early spring and late fall deliver ideal temperatures and fewer crowds. Plan your approach carefully—the two-mile hike into The Dude Ranch gains modest elevation but remains straightforward, with GPS coordinates available for the parking area.
City Slickers stands as an honest climb in a desert setting that challenges your technique without overwhelming the senses. It’s a grounded adventure that invites focus, offering both the thrill of a solid sport climb and the expansive calm of California's High Desert landscape.
The slab sections demand careful foot placement as slipping can lead to longer falls despite bolt protection. Watch for loose rock around the crack zone, especially after wind or rain events common in the desert. Always check anchors before committing to the top belay.
Bring plenty of water; the desert air is dry and can sap your energy quickly.
Start your climb in the cooler morning or late afternoon to avoid peak heat.
Wear shoes with excellent grip to handle the slab’s slick texture.
Allow time for the two-mile approach hike, which is flat but sandy in places.
City Slickers is fully bolted with well-placed bolts and finishes with a chain anchor for a straightforward lead. A standard set of quickdraws suffices, and sticky rubber shoes are ideal for the slab sections.
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