"Fairway offers quality sport climbing beneath the shaded south face of Raven Rocks in California’s High Desert. From approachable moderate routes to challenging technical climbs, this northeast-facing crag is a dependable destination for cooler weather climbing with classic lines like Sky’s The Limit and Freakshow."
Fairway is a calm but compelling climbing destination set on a hillside just south and facing the broad south face of Raven Rocks in California’s High Desert region. This northeast-facing crag remains shaded for much of the day, offering welcome relief and cool conditions especially when temperatures climb elsewhere. Its accessible situation makes it a prime spot for climbers looking to escape the glaring sun while enjoying a solid range of routes that stretch from 5.9 to 5.12 difficulty. Whether you’re aiming to cruise moderate lines or push your limits on steeper challenges, Fairway serves up reliable quality on mostly sport climbs.
The rock quality holds up well across the twenty-nine routes that populate the crag, making it a dependable venue that rewards both careful technique and bold moves. Classic climbs to prioritize include Sky’s The Limit (5.10b) and Mojo Nation (5.10b), both offering exciting sport climbing experiences that challenge your balance and movement. Hole In One (5.11a) and Face To Face (5.11d) move you into more technical territory with steeper walls and nuanced holds. Meanwhile, Freakshow (5.12a) awaits those ready to test finger strength and precise footwork on a sustained, powerful route. Each of these climbs offers a distinct feel and showcases the variety within this compact crag.
Getting to Fairway requires a short trek from the south face of Raven Rocks. Head up and south along the trail that winds uphill through a shaded canyon, passing notable landmarks like The Shreen Crag and Fantasy Island on your way. The approach is straightforward but does involve some elevation gain, reaching the crag’s altitude of just under 4,000 feet. This puts you high enough to catch cooler, fresher air and clear panoramic views of the surrounding desert landscape without the intense heat of lower elevations.
Fairway’s rock orientation to the northeast means you can expect it to hold shade most of the day, an ideal feature in the southern California sun. The prime climbing season stretches over the cooler months when desert heat wanes — roughly late fall through early spring — providing pleasant conditions that make longer sessions comfortable. This shaded crag is a great warm-weather option that helps avoid overheating, a common concern in the Barstow area.
Though the rock type isn’t specified, the climb styles here offer a variety of medium-length sport routes that reward confident clipping and steady lead climbing. The routes tend to be single pitch, manageable in length but rich in technical features. Climbers should prepare for some sharp edges and carefully placed quickdraws on moderately steep walls that test endurance just as much as technique.
Safety at Fairway calls for usual desert climbing awareness. Stay hydrated and protect yourself from temperature swings between shade and sun. The approach trail crosses uneven ground, so solid footwear and careful footing are necessary. Descent typically follows a walk-off trail back down to the main canyon, with no ropes required for getting back to the car.
For those planning a visit, bring a standard sport rack including quickdraws suitable for 5.9 to 5.12 climbing. The climbs here have fixed bolts in good condition but carrying a few extra draws never hurts. Since the terrain stays shady, layers for both warmth and sun protection are smart additions. The surrounding desert terrain offers quiet beauty alongside your climbs — a blend of rocky slopes, scrub brush, and distant views that reward climbers with space to breathe between ascents.
Fairway is a welcoming destination for climbers seeking varied difficulty in a cooler setting within the High Desert’s New Jack City climbing hub. Here, the classic climbs captivate with their tested lines and approachable yet challenging moves. Whether you’re warming up on Sky’s The Limit or pushing your edge on Freakshow, Fairway’s steady rock face stands ready to offer an invigorating day that balances skill with sensory delight. Plan your gear, time your visit for the right season, and take full advantage of this quietly reliable crag south of Raven Rocks.
Stay alert on the approach trail due to loose and uneven terrain. Since the crag remains fairly shaded, be prepared for rapid temperature changes and potential dehydration. The rock is stable but sharp in places, so careful foot placement and slow clipping are advised.
Approach via the south face of Raven Rocks, following the trail south and uphill through the east canyon.
Climb during cooler months — late fall through early spring — to avoid desert heat and enjoy the shaded northeast-facing walls.
Bring layered clothing; the crag remains shady most of the day but temperatures can drop quickly.
Watch your footing on the uneven approach trail and prepare for a walk-off descent.
Fairway features mostly sport routes equipped with reliable fixed bolts. A standard set of quickdraws covering 5.9 to 5.12 routes will suffice, with some longer routes requiring stamina and steady clipping. Extra draws and a moderate rack are recommended for comfort.
Upload your photos of and earn up to 3000 $ADVCOIN tokens.