"Coyote Corner offers a rugged single-pitch trad challenge on the left edge of Super Slab, Joshua Tree. It’s a gritty climb with chossy textures and a pine tree belay that marks the summit, ideal for climbers wanting a straightforward desert trad climb with character."
Coyote Corner is a straightforward yet gritty trad climb located near the left edge of Super Slab in Joshua Tree National Park. This single pitch ascends 90 feet of mostly exposed rock offering climbers a direct line up an unmistakable left-facing corner. The character here leans towards the adventurous side of traditional climbing—expect a slightly loose feel with both the face and the crack revealing a somewhat chossy texture that demands attention at every move. The ascent culminates at a sappy pine tree where you can set your belay, a natural anchor that adds a touch of the desert’s subtle wildness to the top-out.
The rock holds an honest, rugged quality that provides enough solid placements but warns against complacency. Gear placements accommodate cams up to 3 inches, although some of the protection spots require careful evaluation and a practiced eye. A couple of aged slings and a non-locking carabiner still hang on the pine tree’s limbs as remnants of previous ascents, but fresh anchor inspection is always advised.
Approaching Coyote Corner is a short hike from the popular Wonderland of Rocks parking area. The terrain between the access point and the climb is a blend of sandy desert floor peppered with resilient shrubs and iconic yucca plants, giving the trail an undeniable Joshua Tree signature. Prepare for direct sun exposure on the wall for much of the day, so early morning climbs or late afternoon sessions can offer some reprieve from the desert heat. With only one pitch to focus on, climbers can make this a quick but rewarding addition to their day, especially if you are keen to explore several routes in the Super Slab area.
Practical advice includes bringing plenty of water, sturdy rock shoes with good edging capability, and a rack focused on small to medium cams. The somewhat loose rock calls for slow, deliberate climbing and extra vigilance with each piece of gear placed. This route offers a taste of classic Joshua Tree trad climbing—rough, honest, and compact—perfect for those looking to sharpen their crack climbing skills while enjoying the unique desert backdrop. Its accessibility paired with straightforward climbing makes it approachable for climbers transitioning from sport routes to traditional challenges.
Rock quality varies along the climb, so maintain caution with every hold and gear placement. The pine tree belay is natural but aged; carefully confirm anchor solidity before committing.
Start early to avoid the full heat of the desert sun on the Super Slab.
Inspect all gear placements carefully—rock can feel loose in places.
Bring plenty of water and wear shoes with good edging control.
Check the pine tree belay for stability before relying on the anchors.
Standard trad rack with cams up to 3 inches recommended. Some protection spots on the route require attention due to rock quality. Existing fixed slings on the pine belay tree are worn; bring locking carabiners to secure your anchor.
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