HomeClimbingFar aka Let's Climb Naked

Far aka Let's Climb Naked

Calistoga, California United States
sport climbing
short route
runout
small cams
exposed
technical moves
wine country climbing
Length: 40 ft
Type: Sport
Stars
Pitches
1
Location
Far aka Let's Climb Naked
Aspect
South Facing

Overview

"A sharp, 40-foot sport climb near Mount St. Helena offering a mix of well-protected moves and a gritty, runout upper section. Ideal for climbers looking to sharpen their lead skills in a quiet, exposed setting."

Far aka Let's Climb Naked

Far, often known by its cheeky moniker "Let's Climb Naked," offers a raw, focused sport climbing experience tucked into the Shute-Mills Area near Mount St. Helena. This 40-foot route delivers sharp, technical moves on a compact face, guarded by just two closely spaced bolts. The climb opens with a confident sequence demanding precise footwork and steady hands to clip into the protection. Above the bolts, the terrain opens into more exposed climbing, presenting a choice: follow the cleaner yet runout right side, where small to medium cams become essential, or commit to easier but gritty, less protected terrain leading straight up to the chains. This route gives climbers the chance to engage with the rock directly, encouraging bold decision-making in gear placement—an invitation to test your judgment and movement.

Surrounding vegetation is sparse, revealing wide views of Wine Country and the greater San Francisco Bay Area, painting a quiet, focused climbing spot far from the crowds. The rock itself is firm but textured, offering solid friction that rewards attention to balance. The approach is brief, making this line an ideal warm-up or a quick, sharp challenge for intermediate climbers looking to hone lead skills in a playful but straightforward setting.

Given its short length and modest height, Far suits climbers who want a quick outing but still desire meaningful technical climbing. Timing your visit during the cooler hours of the morning or late afternoon can improve grip and comfort, as the west-facing wall bakes in midday sun. Bring appropriate footwear with sticky rubber, and pack small cams if you plan to venture right of the bolts—this adds an adventurous edge to an otherwise straightforward bolted route. Hydration and sun protection are wise choices given the exposed nature of the climb.

Whether you’re brushing the dust off your sport lead skills or scouting new challenge, Far presents a refreshing mix of simplicity and boldness. The route’s clean moves invite concentration, while the less-protected upper section tests commitment and gear savvy. Climbing here is less about lengthy endurance and more about precision and quiet confidence, a brief conversation between athlete and rock in the sprawling setting of California’s wine country.

Climber Safety

Climbers should be cautious above the bolts where protection thins and dirt can reduce friction, making slips more serious. The runout right side requires reliable small cam placements and careful movement.

Route Details

TypeSport
Pitches1
Length40 feet

Local Tips

Bring sticky rubber shoes for the textured but sometimes dusty rock.

Approach in the cooler morning or late afternoon to avoid intense sun.

Consider small cams if you want safer protection on the runout sections above bolts.

Hydrate well and wear sun protection—shade is minimal on this west-facing wall.

Route Rating

Difficulty
5.8 PG13
Quality
Consensus:Rated 5.8 PG13, this climb feels slightly stiffer when leading the right side due to minimal protection and rock grime. The bolt ladder at the bottom is straightforward, but the upper face demands boldness and cautious gear placement, which elevates the challenge compared to typical 5.8 sport routes.

Gear Requirements

Two quickdraws suffice for the bolts, but bringing a rack of small to medium cams unlocks the more technical right-hand face line above the bolts.

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Tags

sport climbing
short route
runout
small cams
exposed
technical moves
wine country climbing