Engage with the bold overhanging left-facing corner of Full Contact Karate, situated on Hai Karate Rock within the iconic Joshua Tree National Park. This single-pitch trad climb offers a direct, physical challenge that demands both technique and stamina. Starting tucked behind a sturdy boulder, the route quickly reveals its character—angled overhangs that test your ability to find secure holds and place gear with precision. The rock's texture is rough and inviting, rewarding careful footwork as you push upward. With a height of 40 feet, Full Contact Karate punches above its weight for climbers seeking a compact yet intense experience.

Hai Karate Rock sits on the northern fringe of Stirrup Tank, offering expansive desert views framed by gnarled juniper and brittle chaparral. The afternoon sun bathes the climb in warmth, but the overhang provides brief pockets of shade, inviting comfortable rests. Approach work is minimal, with a straightforward trail weaving through sandy soil and low scrub, placing you at the base in under ten minutes from the parking area.

Protection is straightforward—a standard rack suffices, but expect to make careful placements in the overhung corner where gear opportunities can feel sparse under pressure. Climbers appreciate the solid rock but should note the climb’s sustained moves require confident footwork and mindfulness of gear positions.

Those venturing here should pack water, wear clean climbing shoes with sticky rubber for friction on the less featured holds, and aim for early morning or late afternoon ascents when temperatures moderate. Experience in handling overhanging trad routes will smooth your round trip, while the desert’s dry air rewards staying hydrated throughout the outing.

Full Contact Karate stands as a spirited test in Joshua Tree’s vast climbing landscape, an approachable yet gritty introduction to harder grades in this desert sanctuary.