HomeClimbingEndless Blue Sky

Endless Blue Sky

Big Bear Lake, California United States
sport climbing
technical
single pitch
steep finish
California granite
Length: 55 ft
Type: Sport
Stars
Pitches
1
Location
Endless Blue Sky
Aspect
South Facing

Overview

"Endless Blue Sky offers a clean, technical 55-foot pitch combining subtle crux sequences with a steeper finish. Ideal for climbers seeking a balanced sport route in the San Bernardino Mountains, it challenges technique and flow without overwhelming difficulty."

Endless Blue Sky

Carved into the rugged terrain of the Onyx Summit Crag, Endless Blue Sky presents a compelling challenge for climbers seeking a straightforward yet engaging single-pitch route in the San Bernardino Mountains. This climb stitches together the subtle, technical moves of Blue Sky Highway’s narrow crux with the steeper, more pronounced features soaring just above. The route stretches over 55 feet, demanding precision on its slender holds and steady confidence as the rock angles steeply toward the anchors.

The climb begins with a measured approach, engaging climbers in fine footwork and delicate finger placements that test balance on pure sport climbing terrain. The wall feels alive here—its textured surface inviting hands to find every edge, holds that wedge and push the body upward with deliberate rhythm. As you move beyond the initial sequence, the angle steepens noticeably, rewarding committed moves with a surge of momentum that propels you toward the chain anchors.

Bathed in California’s crisp mountain air, the exposed face drinks in sunlight for much of the day, making spring and fall the ideal seasons to climb without overheating. The character of the route suits those who appreciate technical sport climbs with an emphasis on smooth flow and controlled power. Though rated 5.8, this climb carries a quiet challenge that nudges you to stay focused—its rating sits comfortably but presents a few subtle crux moments that can surprise.

Safety is bolstered by seven well-placed bolts culminating in solid chain anchors. Still, the recommendation to carry a longer quickdraw or sling for the fifth and sixth bolts is practical advice for managing rope drag and easing clipping in the steeper sections. The setting itself rewards the effort: a sparsely forested ridge with panoramic mountain views stretching beyond the horizon.

Access is straightforward off Highway 38, with a short approach that crosses easy terrain and keeps the route accessible for most adventurers without sacrificing wilderness appeal. This route lives within the demanding yet inviting landscape of the San Bernardino Mountains—an area celebrated for its crisp air, open granite faces, and a growing community of sport climbers hungry for quality lines.

Whether you’re brushing up skills on sport routes or simply looking for an afternoon climb framed by rugged beauty and manageable exposure, Endless Blue Sky offers a balanced blend of challenge and enjoyment. Remember to pace yourself to savor each move, keep an eye on weather changes, and plan for a prompt descent to maximize your daylight.

Gear up, clip in, and let the mountain pull you upward through this seamless fusion of technique and terrain. Endless Blue Sky isn’t just a climb—it’s a call to engage with the San Bernardino range’s bold granite and a chance to sharpen your skill set amid one of California’s enduring climbing playgrounds.

Climber Safety

The proximity of bolts is generally secure, but the fifth and sixth placements catch rope drag without a longer quickdraw or sling. The route’s steep upper section demands controlled clipping and attention to footing to avoid falls above protection.

Route Details

TypeSport
Pitches1
Length55 feet

Local Tips

Start early in the day to avoid baking sun on the exposed face.

Bring a long quickdraw or sling to ease clipping in the crux area.

Wear shoes with precise edging capabilities for the thin crux.

Plan for a fast, simple walk-off descent via the adjacent trail.

Route Rating

Difficulty
5.8
Quality
Consensus:While rated a moderate 5.8, Endless Blue Sky's tricky, thin crux and steeper upper section make the grade feel justifiably firm. This climb rewards steady technique over brute force and may feel stiffer than other local sport climbs of similar rating.

Gear Requirements

The climb uses seven bolts plus chain anchors; carrying a long quickdraw or sling for the fifth and sixth bolts is highly recommended to reduce rope drag on the steeper sections.

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Tags

sport climbing
technical
single pitch
steep finish
California granite