Don't Eat the Worm offers a raw, hidden challenge carved into a low, cave-like recess on a sizeable boulder along the rugged direct approach to Joshua Tree’s Valley of the Kings. Reaching the climb requires a focused effort—a trek up the twisting Rattlesnake Canyon trail until you stand before The Pyramid, then a strenuous scramble southward and upward over talus fields and scattered boulders. This approach sharpens the senses: sharp limestone beneath your fingers, the crunch of dry desert debris underfoot, and the faint desert wind brushing against sun-baked rock faces. Arriving at the climb, you’re greeted by a northern-facing wall that holds the route’s modest but satisfying 50 feet, secured by four well-placed bolts leading to a slick two-bolt anchor.

The sport route demands precision rather than power, with a moderate 5.8 grade that balances technical moves and careful footwork. Its location low on the boulder within this small, shaded niche keeps the rock cool even on warmer days, making an afternoon ascent a pleasant option. Despite its one-pitch brevity, Don't Eat the Worm delivers concentrated adventure and a moment away from the busier parts of the park.

Protection hinges on quickdraws alone, emphasizing a clean, clipped ascent where gear placement skills are less a concern, letting you focus entirely on movement and balance. The surrounding desert hums with life—the occasional whisper of a distant lizard darting, the sun inching across powdery cliffs—infusing the climb with a quiet energy that only the high desert can hold.

For climbers setting out here, hydration is crucial; the dry air speeds dehydration, and the hike demands steady pacing. Good approach shoes with grip are vital for scrambling up talus and crossing loose sections on the way to the climb. Early mornings or late afternoons offer the best light and temperature window, avoiding midday heat.

This route doesn't just ask for climbing skill but rewards a connection with the landscape’s stark beauty and rugged detail. If you seek a short, intense sport climb with a bit of off-trail discovery, Don't Eat the Worm stands ready.