"Bighorn Buttress rises above New Jack City in California’s High Desert, offering an east-facing granite dome with a longer approach well rewarded by quality sport routes and expansive desert views. This ridge-top climbing destination caters to a range of skill levels, blending technical pitches with shaded relief from the afternoon sun."
Perched high on the ridge of Land That Time Forgot, Bighorn Buttress presents a striking dome-shaped crag that rewards those willing to take the longer approach with sweeping views of New Jack City below. This east-facing wall catches morning light and offers welcome shade in the heat of the afternoon, making it an ideal destination for climbers seeking a balance of adventure and comfort in California’s High Desert.
The ascent to Bighorn Buttress begins at the kiosk near Bedrock Wall. From here, the trail threads along the left side of the formation and gradually opens into the upper valley. Look for the cairn marking the start of a zig-zagging route that climbs steadily uphill to this high perch at roughly 3,945 feet elevation. While the approach demands some stamina, the scenery and climbing lines make every step worthwhile.
Once at the buttress, climbers find a variety of routes offering solid granite and thoughtfully bolted pitches. Classic climbs like The Inevitable (5.10a), Poaching Bighorns (5.10b), and Warthog (5.10b) showcase the accessible yet engaging character of the area. More challenging routes such as Catalina (5.10c), Circling Vultures (5.11d), and Toxic Box (5.11a) offer rewarding technical sequences without veering into extreme difficulty, making Bighorn Buttress a diverse playground for sport climbers who enjoy well-protected routes with memorable movement and reliable rock.
The rock itself feels solid, with crisp edges and pockets that demand technique more than brute force. East face exposure means you avoid the scorching midday sun and can often climb in comfortably cool conditions even during warmer months. The area’s typical High Desert weather brings sunny days punctuated by occasional precipitation, so timing your visit between spring and fall provides the best chance for dry, stable conditions.
After your climbs, take a moment to appreciate views of New Jack City sprawling below—the rugged desert and jagged ridgelines extend for miles on the horizon. The setting feels quietly removed yet reachable, a sweet spot for climbers who want both wilderness and convenience.
Gear wise, sport climbing hardware is the norm here, with routes mostly bolted. A standard single rack of draws, a helmet, and shoes optimized for technical edges will equip you well. Given the approach terrain and ridge-top elevation, carrying water and sun protection is essential. The descent from the buttress is a straightforward walk down the same zig-zagging trail used on the way up, so be mindful of your footing after the workout of climbing on sun-warmed rock.
Overall, Bighorn Buttress is an inviting spot for those seeking reliable granite climbing on solid routes in a dramatic High Desert setting. It blends the thrill of elevation and exposure with routes tuned to a spectrum of skill levels, making it perfect for climbers who want to explore beyond the valley floor and immerse themselves in California’s less traveled but rewarding climbing landscapes.
The approach trail involves steady elevation gain with some exposed sections; carry sufficient water and move carefully on loose rocks. The descent retraces the zig-zag path and can be slippery especially after rain — proceed with caution and allow time to descend safely.
Start early to avoid afternoon heat; the east-facing wall is shaded in the afternoons.
Use Google Maps to follow the trail past Bedrock Wall and lookout for the cairn marking the zig-zag approach.
Bring plenty of water and sun protection—despite shade on the wall, the trail is exposed.
The descent follows the same trail and can be slippery—take your time on the way down.
Routes at Bighorn Buttress are predominantly sport climbs with fixed bolts. Bring a standard rack of quickdraws, helmet, and shoes suited for technical edges. Water and sun protection are recommended due to the High Desert environment and the approach hike's length.
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