Carving a path up Suicide Rock’s notorious granite, Funny Face offers a compact but compelling experience for sport climbers who crave tactical moves paired with classic California facesetting. This single pitch climbs roughly 50 feet, beginning where a crack and chimney sit tucked just right of Crater Face, challenging climbers to engage both power and finesse to make the transition onto the face itself. Once clipped into the first bolt, your focus shifts left to the climb’s crux — a delicate dance on black granite knobs that demand confident footwork and steady hands. The rock here is textured and bold, each hold etched into the face like natural footholds carved out by time and the elements, making every move precise and rewarding.

Though short in stature, Funny Face carries a punch with its 5.9 rating that feels true-to-grade, neither soft nor artificially inflated. The line’s bolt protection—just two 3/8-inch bolts—means the route respects the adventurous spirit, calling for clean clipping and commitment rather than an overreliance on fixed gear. A sharp eye for gear placements and smooth clipping will keep momentum flowing without hesitation.

Suicide Rock itself looms as a landmark of the California climbing scene, sitting amid the rugged spines of the San Jacinto Mountains. The approach traces moderate trails dotted with chaparral and pine, offering bursts of scent-heavy forest air and distant views that open toward the Coachella Valley's vast stretch of desert below. The climb’s south-facing wall catches morning sun, warming the granite and energizing early ascents; afternoons can cool down under the sporadic shade cast by nearby formations.

For climbers targeting this route, timing is everything. Early spring or late fall presents the sweet spot for temperature control and reliable weather, while summer ascents require caution around heat and sun exposure. Footwear with strong edging ability will make all the difference on the black knobs, where balance and subtle shifts push you upward. Hydration is essential—especially on the approach where the dry air races against any lingered moisture. With its straightforward length, Funny Face is an accessible yet purposeful outing, perfect as a warm-up or a focused challenge on a day dedicated to sport climbing at Suicide Rock.

The descent is straightforward—a simple walk off along a well-established trail leads back to the base, allowing tired climbers to collect themselves while soaking in the sprawling desert vista. As you linger at the bottom, the granite face catches the waning light, a silent reminder of the bold moves and precise balance required to own this line.