Electric Dylan carves a distinct path up Crystal Lake Crag, offering climbers a textured blend of crack climbing and subtle technical moves within the Angeles National Forest. This two-pitch, 120-foot trad route immediately tests your technique with a compelling offwidth jam that demands patience and precision. The climb’s first pitch starts by threading a clean, hand-to-offwidth crack crowned by a short overhanging bulge that forces you to find secure holds and commit fully. As you reach the ledge above, the route shifts character with a delicate traverse right, following a narrow finger crack. This section calls for careful footwork, especially since the lichen scattered across the rock complicates smearing and reduces friction. If you proceed without hesitation, a committing mantle awaits just beyond, requiring focused upper body strength and balance.

The exposure picks up notably on the belay ledge, which contains quite a bit of loose rock—anchoring safely here is paramount. Pitch two eases into a more straightforward scramble, climbing up easy slabs above the belay and past a striking six-foot rock horn that offers a solid natural anchor for rappelling. For those preferring a walk-off, a class 3-4 descent is accessible by heading uphill and following one of the scree ramps southward.

Quality protection gear is essential for this climb. A full rack of cams, particularly several #3 Camalots, equips you to navigate the offwidth and finger crack sections confidently. Webbing and a locking carabiner come in handy for securing the rappel anchor at the top of the climb. A 70-meter rope comfortably accommodates a rappel from pitch two, but be mindful of rope drag during the traverse.

Positioned within the Angeles National Forest, Electric Dylan offers an intimate outdoor experience just a stone’s throw from the urban sprawl of the Los Angeles Basin. This proximity to a metropolitan area makes it an ideal quick escape for climbers looking to blend technical trad challenges with plentiful nature. The route’s rock face faces east, capturing morning sun and providing advantageous conditions before afternoon heat sets in—spring and fall offer the most pleasant climbing windows with cooler air and firmer rock.

Accessing Crystal Lake Crag involves a straightforward approach trail weaving through mixed pine and oak, with a steady upward trend that preps you well for the technical demands ahead. Expect roughly 30 minutes of steady hiking over uneven terrain before reaching the base of the climb at approximately 34.3181 latitude and -117.8491 longitude.

While Electric Dylan may not dazzle with extensive length or over-the-top exposure, it commands respect through its crack sequence, rock texture, and delicate traverse. The route’s varied climbing style and solid protection opportunities invite careful strategy and patience. Climbers should double-check anchor points due to loose rock at the belay, moving cautiously to maintain safety.

Whether you’re refreshing your crack skills or searching for a compelling trad route within reach of Los Angeles, Electric Dylan brings grounded adventure and rewarding moves to your climbing portfolio.