"Finders Keepers is a compact, technical 5.10a sport climb on Hueco Wall, offering a direct line peppered with subtle directional shifts. Ideal for climbers seeking focused movement in the vibrant setting of the Santa Monica Mountains."
Finders Keepers offers a straight shot sport climb that challenges with sustained moves and technical finesse on the Hueco Wall, situated within the rugged Santa Monica Mountains. This route shares anchors with Scar Tissue, giving climbers a familiar frame of reference before engaging the sequence. The climb demands precise footwork and a keen sense of balance as you start by veering slightly to the right, forcing you to readjust handholds and body tension. After the final bolt, the line elegantly arcs back left, requiring a subtle shift in technique to reach the shared anchors safely.
The setting itself is a defining feature — the Hueco Wall rises boldly above the Los Angeles Basin, presenting climbers with a pared-down climbing experience away from the city buzz. From the base, you’ll notice the gritty texture offering reliable friction underfoot, essential for the smearing and edging this climb demands. The single pitch covers a compact yet concentrated stretch, making it an ideal warm-up or a focused project for climbers hunting solid 5.10a sport challenges.
Protection comes from five well-spaced bolts leading to two open anchors shared with Scar Tissue. This roster of hardware ensures security but advises mindfulness of rope drag, especially as you adjust direction near the end. The rock quality shows typical Santa Monica granitic texture—solid yet with occasional sharp edges requiring good climbing shoes to protect your feet.
Approach is straightforward, with a brief hike through low shrub and rocky terrain, typical of the sun-drenched slopes of the Santa Monica range. Plan your climb in morning hours to avoid the heat that builds later in the day, as sun exposure can become intense. Pack enough water for hydration, and assume footwear with good edging ability to negotiate the subtle technical moves. The atmosphere here is uncomplicated but demands respect: a short, powerful route that tests precision more than endurance.
For climbers who value a climb with a clean bolt line and focused technical challenges, Finders Keepers offers a compelling spot in the LA climbing scene. It’s a route that delivers solid sport climbing in a location where nature pushes forward with steady resistance, inviting you to rise to the occasion while staying grounded with pragmatic preparation.
Be cautious near the last bolt where the route swings back left toward shared anchors—rope drag and subtle foothold adjustments require focus. The open anchors demand a proper setup before lowering. Also, watch for sun exposure during midday to prevent overheating.
Start early to avoid afternoon heat and direct sun on the wall.
Wear shoes with strong edging for smears and subtle footholds.
Check the shared anchor setup carefully before lowering.
Hydrate well and be prepared for a brief rugged approach through dry brush.
Five bolts lead the climb with a shared two-bolt anchor system. Bring standard sport climbing rack; the bolts are well-placed but expect some rope drag near the directional shifts.
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