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For a Few Crystals More: A Crisp Sport Climb in Santa Barbara

Santa Barbara, California United States
sport
slab
crux
single pitch
balance
reachy move
Length: 70 ft
Type: Sport
Stars
Pitches
1
Location
For a Few Crystals More
Aspect
South Facing

Overview

"A clean 70-foot sport climb at Santa Barbara’s Crag Full of Dynamite, featuring moderate moves with a subtle slab crux that tests balance and reach. Ideal for climbers seeking precise footwork in a well-protected setting."

For a Few Crystals More: A Crisp Sport Climb in Santa Barbara

For a Few Crystals More carves a precise and engaging line on one of Santa Barbara’s reliable sport walls. Situated immediately to the left of the popular "The Good~the Bad and the Ugly," this climb offers a straightforward 70-foot pitch that appeals to climbers seeking moderate difficulty with a decisive crux. The route’s holds feel tactile and thoughtful, requiring attention to body positioning as you ascend the slabby face. The rock’s texture grabs just enough to deliver a confident push, but be ready for a subtle, reachy move near the chains—a crux that tests your balance and footwork more than sheer power.

The approach here is uncomplicated, making it an ideal afternoon project when the sun begins shifting over the Central Coast, casting a comfortable light and reducing glare on the wall. At 5.9, the climb strikes a good balance: it isn't overly intimidating but demands precision and quiet focus to link the moves smoothly.

Bolting is straightforward, with four well-placed bolts leading directly to top-out chains, providing solid protection and peace of mind as you move through the gentler terrain before that final slab challenge. The wall’s orientation catches the afternoon sun, warming the rock while avoiding harsh shadows that can disguise footholds—a boon in cooler seasons or early evening sessions.

Santa Barbara’s coastal air often carries a subtle salt tang, mingling with the earthy scent of chaparral and rugged oaks surrounding the crag. The nearby ocean lurks just beyond the horizon, its persistent waves creating a rhythmic soundtrack that encourages focus and calm. This combination of environmental cues sharpens awareness, reminding you that each hold and foot placement is part of a larger dance with nature.

Climbers will find the route approachable yet engaging, suitable for those honing sport climbing skills or veterans seeking a tune-up pitch. Wear shoes that offer a firm edge for slab footing and carry chalk to manage subtle handholds. Hydrate well before your climb, as while the shade rolls in, the sun still sees its moments here.

Whether aiming to link this route with others in the Crag Full of Dynamite or adding a precise sport climb to your Santa Barbara agenda, For a Few Crystals More delivers clean movement, solid protection, and a quiet intensity that rewards careful effort and steady nerves.

Climber Safety

While protection is straightforward, the slabby nature means falls could be pendulum drags if you’re off-balance. Pay close attention to foot placement near the crux, and avoid slipping on the subtle holds. The approach is easy, but watch for loose rocks near the base when setting up your rope.

Route Details

TypeSport
Pitches1
Length70 feet

Local Tips

Approach via the main trail to the Crag Full of Dynamite; it’s about a 10–15 minute walk over firm terrain.

Bring chalk to maintain grip on the subtly textured rock.

Best climbed in the afternoon to benefit from warmth without glare.

Hydrate well before climbing as shade is intermittent.

Route Rating

Difficulty
5.9
Quality
Consensus:The 5.9 rating here feels true to its style: moderate overall difficulty with a distinct crux that demands precise footwork and a poised reach. It’s no soft grade; the subtle slab move near the chains bumps the pump and separates steady climbers from casual ones. Compared to nearby routes, it offers a fresher challenge without runaway overhangs or power jams.

Gear Requirements

Four bolts provide solid protection leading to chains for easy top-out. Recommended shoe choice is one with a firm edge to handle subtle slab footing and micropockets.

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Tags

sport
slab
crux
single pitch
balance
reachy move