Ring Side Boulders offers a rugged, hands-on bouldering experience in California’s High Desert, near Apple Valley. This cluster of granite-studded formations sits quietly on the slopes north and southeast of Carousel Rock, demanding a patient approach both on the trail and at the crag. Though relatively low in height, with boulders topping out around 12 feet, the area stands out for its hillside setting and the playful scrambling needed to reach each group of problems. This is a climbing spot best tackled in the cool morning hours, before the desert sun fully wakes.

Arriving here means giving yourself a bit of time to navigate the uneven terrain. The north formation is visible from The Igloo, spotted just east on a lower slope, making it easier to find on approach. The southeast group, by contrast, hides a little more—requiring a short hike southward along the same hillside that overlooks Carousel Rock. The walk-in is rewarding: sparse vegetation scattered over exposed rock, offering expansive views of the arid desert landscape, with the sun rising behind distant peaks. This sense of seclusion—balanced by the convenience of being close to Apple Valley—gives Ring Side Boulders a strong appeal for climbers looking to escape busier spots without sacrificing climbing quality.

The rock itself demands finesse. Among the thirteen established routes here, there’s a standout sit-start on a vertical hand crack that has an inverted hold variation—a move that challenges even the stronger fingers in the group. Though this problem feels slightly beyond introductory skill levels, it underscores the technical potential hidden in this seemingly modest bouldering area.

Classic climbs at Ring Side include Starlite Decay (V2), recognized among locals for its crisp movement and satisfying sequence. While the climb list isn’t extensive, the overall vibe promotes a relaxed yet engaged outing on solid, technical rock. The southwest-facing boulders catch the morning light, offering shade as the day warms and making spring and fall prime seasons to climb. Hot summer days call for early starts or retreating into the shade of nearby formations.

Gear wise, two to three bouldering pads will serve well given the uneven landing zones, and a brush to keep holds clean is essential in this dusty environment. Protective footwear with sticky rubber is a must to maximize friction on the vertical cracks and slabs.

When planning your session, keep in mind the slightly exposed hillside location—loose rock and uneven footing on approach require steady steps. Weather is mostly dry year-round, but the desert’s intense sun can become unforgiving if you linger too long without hydration and sun protection.

Ring Side Boulders fits those eager for technical, moderate-level problems where each ascent feels earned. It’s not a place to rush through but to savor: a compact climbing haven where the approach heightens anticipation and the rock’s texture tells its own story. Whether you’re shaking out between burn moves or scouting the next maneuver along the crack, this area offers a refreshing blend of solitude and challenge just a short drive from urban comfort. For climbers who appreciate terrain that pushes footwork and hand jams without overwhelming scale, Ring Side stands as a dependable option in California’s High Desert circuit.