Slab City (Right) in California offers a climbing experience that is equal parts accessible and challenging, suited for those who appreciate slab climbing paired with technical crack sequences. Situated on a natural rise where talus slopes meet the base of the Metro Sector, this area invites climbers to test their footwork and gear placement skills across a diverse range of routes. From beginner-friendly 5.7 slab climbs like White Light to more demanding technical pushes such as Synchronicity (5.11c), this section of Slab City rewards persistence and precision.

Starting right at ground level, Slab City (Right) gradually ascends above scattered boulders and talus. The climbing here is characterized by smooth slabby faces and intricate cracks requiring solid protection skills, especially since many routes demand active gear placement. Climbers should expect to use a traditional rack, with an emphasis on small to medium cams and nuts to confidently cover crack systems. While the majority of routes hover in the 5.7 to 5.12c range, the style leans towards technical skill rather than pure power.

Getting there is straightforward — after parking nearby, a short five-minute approach on a dirt road leads you parallel to the cliff base, easing you into the area where the wall starts to rise. This accessibility, coupled with generally stable weather for much of the year, makes Slab City (Right) an attractive destination for climbers seeking a day of varied moderate climbing without the complexity of a long hike.

Among the must-try climbs at Slab City (Right) are Pleasure Dome (5.10b) and Lovely Lady (5.10c), each offering memorable movements on clean stone with well-protected crack sections. Climbers with more ambition can test themselves on Pity Committee (5.11a) or Synchronicity (5.11c), which demand sharper technical focus and confidence in gear placement. The classic climbs lineup includes Groove Factor (5.10a), Scrawny, not Brawny (5.10a), and Grab Them By The (5.10c), all praised for their solid rock quality and engaging sequences.

For climbers planning their visit, it’s helpful to know that the crag faces generally receive good sun exposure, making mornings or late afternoons the best times to avoid the hottest hours in summer. The rock’s elevation, just over 1,000 feet, means weather can change quickly, so bring layers and keep an eye on local forecasts. Seasonal precipitation is limited but should be considered during wetter months, especially since scrambling over talus requires extra caution when wet.

Protection here favors traditional gear — the cracks offer natural placements but bring a well-rounded rack including cams in the #0.3 to #2 range, nuts, and some small stoppers. Fixed anchors are minimal, so be prepared to build reliable belays. The talus field at the base may require a short scramble to access some climbs, so sturdy approach shoes and caution coming on and off the rock are recommended.

Descent is generally a simple walk-off or scramble back down to the dirt road, with no technical rappel needed. This ease of exit makes it feasible to link multiple climbs in a single outing.

Slab City (Right) sits within the Riverside Quarry area, a practical location for day trips from nearby cities but still feels far enough to offer a refreshing escape. Its slate-like slabs and thoughtful crack systems create a playground that values finesse over brute force. Whether you’re a slab novice gaining confidence or a crack climbing enthusiast seeking a technical playground, this area delivers climbing that is both rewarding and distinctly Californian in character.

Embrace the subtle challenge of Slab City (Right) — every foothold encourages mindfulness, every crack demands care, and the surrounding views remind you why climbing here is about pushing limits within nature’s quiet yet demanding realm.