"Comic Book stands as a desert classic—two pitches of clean, demanding crack climbing carved into the white granite of Joshua Tree. This route challenges your technique and strength with a compelling crux on pitch two while rewarding you with sweeping views and timeless desert solitude."
Rising boldly from the Comic Book area’s rugged granite, this two-pitch Trad climb offers a pure crack climbing experience etched into the heart of Joshua Tree’s iconic landscape. From the moment you set foot on the well-worn approach, you’re drawn into a world where hard granite meets tested technique and natural artistry. The first pitch initiates you with an engaging 5.8 crack that ascends a clean face, guiding climbers into a scooped alcove where a solid two-bolt belay awaits. The granite here feels alive under your hands—cool, smooth, and sharp-edged, demanding precise jams and confident footwork.
Pitch two presents the climb's definitive challenge. The grade steps up to 5.10a as you confront the crux: powering your way over the lip of the alcove and reconnecting with the crack system above. This sequence rewards strength and finesse, pushing climbers to maintain focus as the crack opens into a more straightforward jam-packed finale leading to the summit. The granite’s texture remains trustworthy, offering excellent friction that invites you to dance through the moves rather than fight the rock.
Descending is straightforward yet requires attention—scramble carefully down and around boulders to the back and right side of the formation. This route’s exposure is moderate, but commitment remains vital, as the gear placements demand both awareness and a good rack. Prepare well with a standard set of nuts and cams from small TCU sizes up to a #3 Camalot to protect the variable widths of the beautifully clean cracks.
Joshua Tree’s desert environment surrounds you with open vistas pierced by towering monoliths and sparse desert scrub. The early morning sun hits the wall with warmth, while afternoon shade creeps beneath the scoops, granting climbers welcome relief when the sun climbs high. Optimal climbing window extends through cooler months—fall to spring—with stable conditions and less chance of heat-induced dehydration.
Pack extra water, wear sturdy shoes with sticky rubber for secure foot placements, and approach with patience—this climb is a steady conversation between you and the rock. Whether you’re refining crack technique or adding a classic Joshua Tree route to your logbook, Comic Book offers an accessible yet satisfying climb steeped in the desert’s relentless energy and timeless granite presence.
Gear placements can be subtle on the crux pitch; take time to evaluate each nut and cam carefully. The descent involves loose boulders—descend with deliberate footing to avoid slips. Seasonal heat can spike quickly, so plan climbs during cooler daylight hours and carry ample water.
Start early to avoid the desert heat, especially in summer months.
Hydrate thoroughly before ascending; water sources are scarce nearby.
Wear climbing shoes with sticky rubber for confident jams and foot placements.
Plan time to carefully scramble down through the boulder field on the back right side.
Bring a solid rack ranging from small nuts and TCU-sized cams up to #3 Camalots to protect the various crack widths. Expect traditional placements with good opportunities but be ready for some tricky gear on the crux pitch.
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