Exit Stage Right, also known as The L Word, offers a brief but practical introduction to trad climbing within San Diego County’s rugged Mission Gorge. This single-pitch, 25-foot climb challenges climbers with a straightforward rightward traverse under a small roof, demanding precise gear placements on medium-sized protection. The route’s pared-down nature doesn’t inspire awe through length or difficulty but serves as an essential stepping stone for those venturing into the adjacent, more challenging lines like Gallwas and Nutcracker.

Approaching the Main Wall in Mission Gorge places you within a raw, sun-baked cliffside that tests your approach footing on rocky paths scented faintly by sage and rattled by dry breezes. The wall itself catches the afternoon sun, warming its cracks and faces—ideal for climbs later in the day. This route keeps things practical: a single pitch that stretches just beyond 20 feet, framed by modest rock features that force thoughtful gear placement, rewarding climbers who can read the rock’s texture and subtly changing angles.

While Exit Stage Right doesn’t boast high star ratings, its value is in the access it grants to surrounding, more technical climbs. The bolted anchor offers a secure setup for lowering or rappelling, carefully installed to withstand the local weather and usage. Experienced trad climbers expecting a brief warm-up or a cliffside introduction will find this route meets those goals without complication.

For planning your day, pack a standard rack featuring medium-sized protection—nothing overly large, but plenty to protect the traverse under the roof. Footwear with solid edging will help maintain balance along the rightwards movement, and a moderate level of confidence in placing gear will go a long way here. The proximity to San Diego means you can budget your time efficiently, arriving early to avoid midday heat and savor the striking canyon views before and after your climb.

Summing up, Exit Stage Right / The L Word presents an accessible trad climb that favors precision over brawn. It’s a practical choice for climbers working through the Main Wall’s offerings or looking for a straightforward project in a sunlit canyon. While short, the route embodies the essential qualities of trad cracking and gear management, all set against the enduring California landscape.