"Dos Dose delivers a compelling wide crack experience on the south face of Claim Jumper Wall. Its sustained 50-foot pitch offers a physical test for trad climbers, with solid gear placements and flexible descent options making it a rewarding goal for those ready to embrace offwidth challenges."
Dos Dose stands as a quiet challenge on the south end of the Claim Jumper Wall, inviting climbers to test their mettle on a wide crack that demands both strength and technique. This cleancut offwidth stretches 50 feet up, offering a bold line that beckons adventurers comfortable with traditional gear placements and offwidth wrestling. The rock face here is solid granite, its angle just steep enough to keep muscles engaged without the desperation of an overhang. As you ascend, the crack’s smooth, wide lips force choices—jam, stack, or chicken wing—each move a conversation with the stone.
The route’s location within the Holcomb Valley Pinnacles gives it a sense of seclusion that many local climbs lack. A glance to the horizon rewards you with the sweeping ridges of the San Bernardino Mountains; below, the dry forest floor stretches out with the whisper of pines caught in a mountain breeze. Sunlight grazes the south-facing wall for most of the day, warming the rock surface but never overheating, making late spring through early fall the prime window for this climb.
One pitch is all it takes to experience the full character of Dos Dose: sustained, physical, and requiring solid crack climbing skills. The protection is straightforward—bring cams up to 4 inches to cover the placements adequately. Gear placements favor finger to hand-sized cams, and the crack’s geometry offers reassuring placements with some attention paid to comfort and efficiency.
Approaching the route involves a short hike from the main parking area around Holcomb Valley Pinnacles. The trail leading to Claim Jumper Wall is marked but rocky, requiring sturdy footwear and a steady pace. It takes roughly 20 minutes, with gentle elevation changes that get you mentally primed for the climb ahead.
Once at the base, climbers can opt to top out, earning a gear belay and a walk-off descent that winds thoughtfully down to the trail. Alternatively, an easily accessible traverse to the left leads to the anchors on Necktie Party, providing more options for descent or linking climbs. This flexibility makes Dos Dose attractive to those who want a blend of challenge and safety.
Few attempt Dos Dose, but those who do walk away with a memorable crack climb that challenges body and mind without overwhelming risk. The route’s moderate rating of 5.9 feels fair with a physical crux tucked around the middle where technique and endurance intersect. Those familiar with offwidths will appreciate the rhythm this route demands, while newer climbers gain valuable exposure to its unique style.
On any trip here, hydration is vital, as the dry mountain air and exertion add up quickly. Early starts avoid afternoon heat, and a helmet is recommended given occasional loose rock near the trail. The climb’s clean nature means minimal debris on the rock, though caution around the approach ensures a safe, enjoyable experience for all.
Dos Dose is an invitation to a less crowded corner of Big Bear climbing, offering an interaction with granite that speaks plainly but clearly to those ready to listen. It’s a route for those looking to step beyond the well-traveled lines and engage with the rock in a way that’s both engaging and honest.
Loose rock near the trail requires caution on the approach and helmet use is strongly advised. The crack itself is clean and secure to protect, but stay alert when topping out or moving left to anchors to avoid unstable zones.
Start early to avoid afternoon heat on the south-facing wall.
Wear sturdy shoes for the rocky, uneven approach trail.
Hydrate well; the dry mountain air can dehydrate quickly.
For descent, topping out is straightforward or cut left to anchors on Necktie Party for a safer rappel option.
Standard trad rack with cams up to 4 inches works best; placements are solid though sometimes require thoughtful positioning. A helmet is recommended due to loose rock near the approach.
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