"Fire Walker invites climbers into a sharp, technical corner tucked between Burning Man and Incinerator Wall. This 50-foot trad pitch combines bold moves protected by bolts and cams, rewarding steady hands and thoughtful footwork."
Fire Walker cuts a sharp, demanding line along the niche corner wedged between the imposing faces of Burning Man and Incinerator Wall. From the very first move, you’re on alert—starting atop scattered blocks, quickly clipping the initial bolt that guides you into a tightening sequence. The second bolt guards the climb’s crux, a move that challenges both balance and power as you navigate the steeper section. Once past this tension point, the route opens to a widening corner accompanied by a bulge that tests your technique again, but this time offers some relief with a hidden crack perfect for a small cam placement. As you haul upwards above the bulge, the climbing eases, with smoother jugs and holds guiding you past another bolt and toward a finish marked by a finger crack that rewards steady footwork and finger strength. The rock here is typical of the San Bernardino Mountains—solid, textured, and warm under the California sun. Once your partner tops out, the descent is a straightforward walk-off heading south, dropping back through the gully that separates Incinerator Wall from the west slope of Motherlode Rock—a path marked by loose scree and shaded by rugged bushes. This short, single-pitch route measures about 50 feet but packs varied challenges and technical interest, demanding a well-rounded trad skill set and careful gear management. Plan your climb to avoid mid-day heat, carry cams from small to medium (.75 to 3 inches), and expect rocky terrain on the approach and exit trails. Fire Walker is a compelling choice for climbers seeking a steep, punchy pitch that balances protection bolts with thoughtful traditional placements in a remote, rugged corner of Big Bear’s climbing landscape.
Take care with gear placements above the bulge—small cams require careful placement in the crack to ensure secure protection. Loose rock near the start calls for attentive footwork. On descent, loose scree in the south gully demands slow, deliberate steps to avoid slips.
Start early to avoid afternoon heat and potential rattlesnake encounters on approach.
Wear shoes with good edging ability to handle the technical moves on the crux.
Check your rack carefully to ensure you have cams that fit finger and hand cracks up to 3 inches wide.
Descend south through the gully with caution—the scree can be loose and unstable.
The climb requires three bolts supplemented by traditional protection ranging from small cams around 0.75 inches to larger units up to 3 inches for the anchor. Bring a versatile rack focused on medium-sized cams for the crack placements above the bulge.
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