On the sun-drenched faces of Suicide Rock, the Smooth Sole Wall’s right side offers a compact yet engaging climb known as Disco Duck. This brief 50-foot trad route delivers classic southern California granite with a sharp, inviting crack to start. The climb begins in a left-facing corner about 15 feet right of Toxic Waltz, challenging your feet and hands to work in tandem against the rough rock texture. The initial crack tests your finger strength and gear placements, demanding good technique and composure right from the ground.

As you reach beyond the crack, the route opens to simpler face climbing that eases up the small buttress, rewarding steady movement with rewarding views of the surrounding rock formations. The granite here is firm and features subtle edges and smears that make upward progress satisfying, without feeling relentless. This quick pitch is perfect for climbers who want a taste of traditional protection on moderately challenging terrain without the need for a long approach or multiple pitches.

Protection demands care here, with gear placements ranging up to three inches wide. Early on, the thin left-facing corner requires precise placement of a smaller cam, including a #5 microstopper nut to secure the start. These placements aren’t always obvious, so familiarity with small cam and nut technique pays dividends to ensure a safe, confident ascent.

Approaching Disco Duck is straightforward—the trail follows well-worn paths typical of Suicide Rock’s climbing scenes. Expect a brief but rocky approach through scrub and granite slabs, taking roughly 10 to 15 minutes from the base parking area. The route’s position on the east-facing wall means morning light is generous, warming the rock early and easing the chill of desert mornings.

After topping out, descent involves slipping down a gully nestled just behind the climb, a gentle reminder to keep your footing as loose scree and uneven rocks await your final steps. This descent is a quick and accessible exit, making Disco Duck an ideal choice for climbers looking to layer their day with a manageable and rewarding traditional climb on some of California’s most storied slab granite.

For those planning a trip, sturdy footwear with solid edging capability is key, along with a lightweight rack geared for smaller cams and nuts. Hydration is crucial given the area's exposed sun and dry conditions, especially in warmer months. Early AM starts not only take advantage of prime wall temperatures but also help avoid the crowd common on Suicide Rock routes. If you’re seeking a route with a solid crack start, sensible protection, and mellow face climbing, Disco Duck stands as an accessible gateway to the classic granite around Tahquitz and Suicide Rocks.