Full Day Runner offers a concise but rewarding trad climb tucked within the rugged contours of Alpentine Wall, in the iconic Joshua Tree National Park. This 75-foot route demands steady footwork and precise gear placement as you ascend a textured face before negotiating an overhanging band of patina that guards a unique rock feature: a large shelf pierced by a hole that extends all the way through to the ground below. The climb’s defining move, or crux, invites you to carefully navigate around this hole, transitioning from a right-leaning crack to a vertical centerpiece—the central of three cracks slicing the rock face—that tests control and balance.

The initial ascent requires patience, as protective gear placement doesn't come immediately—typically not until you've climbed 12 to 15 feet above the start. This demands confidence on less-protected terrain early on. Once beyond this initial reach, the climb opens into a rhythm where smaller cams secure the vertical crack, while larger sizes, including 2-inch and 3-inch cams, safeguard the more strenuous crux sequence. Footing is solid but variable, moving from textured rock to sandy ledge at the top, where the route concludes on a broad, inviting sandy shelf that feels like a well-earned rest after the focused effort.

The approach to Full Day Runner threads through the Campfire Crag Area of Indian Cove Campground, a popular hub in Joshua Tree known for its mix of traditional towers and crack climbs. The wall faces east-northeast, catching morning light that warms the rugged surfaces and reveals their subtle shades. The best seasons to tackle this route are spring and fall when temperatures are moderate, and the rock feels grippy without excessive summer heat. Climbers are advised to arrive early to avoid the climbing area’s prominent afternoon sun.

This route suits climbers looking for a straightforward single-pitch adventure with enough challenge to sharpen crack skills without overwhelming complexity. The crux crack’s unique entrance highlights the necessity of creative problem-solving on the rock, making it more than just a physical test but a technical puzzle. It’s an excellent climb for those ready to push into 5.8 trad terrain, providing a solid introduction to placing gear in Joshua Tree’s characteristic crack systems.

Safety is paramount, especially given the initial runout before reliable gear appears. Climbers should keep their wits about them on the lower section, carefully managing rope drag and body positioning. It’s recommended to bring a range of cams, emphasizing larger sizes to handle the crux placements effectively. The finish on the wide sandy ledge offers a comfortable spot to rest, but downclimbing can be tricky, so plan for a rappel or a confident downclimb.

Local wisdom favors climbing early in the day to avoid the heat that can sap energy and grip quality. Water and sun protection are essential, as the approach and local campsite can get dry and intense quickly. Despite its modest length, Full Day Runner delivers a fulfilling blend of technical challenge and Joshua Tree’s raw desert beauty, embodying the park’s reputation for accessible but thoughtful trad routes.