"Glue Rhymes with Poo offers the longest, most varied single pitch at the Cirque of the Climbables, combining technical crack moves with runout face climbing and solid protection. This desert trad classic challenges your gear skills and nerve on Joshua Tree’s textured granite."
Glue Rhymes with Poo stands out as the longest climb within the Cirque of the Climbables, offering an engaging mix of crack and face climbing that challenges both technique and route-finding on good rock. You begin tucked into a tight corner just left of the base of the buttress that hosts its sibling route, Soup Rhymes with Poop. The climb quickly pulls you up into a dark, left-leaning crack system that demands careful gear placements and precise hand jams to navigate the few sharply technical moves. The crack’s character shifts as you climb higher, giving way to a series of more open, textured face holds that invite confident footwork and balance. Protection is reliable in the crack, but the runout sections above require steady nerves as the pitch gradually eases in difficulty while maintaining exposure.
The rock itself has that classic Joshua Tree grit—solid and rough against your fingertips, giving you steady friction as you ascend. The climb’s 120-foot length makes it a satisfying upper-grade pitch for those looking to push their skills on traditional gear without straying too far from moderate territory.
Located within the expansive Cirque of the Climbables, this route feels tucked away from busy trails yet accessible enough to plan a straightforward approach. The surrounding desert landscape unfolds with open views, dry and sun-soaked, making water and sun protection key considerations before heading out. Ideal days here are typically spring through fall when the weather is stable; summer heat requires early starts and plentiful hydration.
To prepare for Glue Rhymes with Poo, bring a comprehensive rack plus an array of longer slings to handle the trickier placements within the crack system. Your shoes should balance sensitivity with the rugged footholds typical of Joshua Tree’s granite. Expect a mix of jamming strength and face climbing finesse, making this a versatile test of trad climbing skills in a stunning desert environment. For climbers seeking a route that pairs adventurous crack climbing with a strong dose of Joshua Tree’s iconic desert exposure, this one fits the bill perfectly.
Though protection is reliable in the crack, the upper face section involves runout moves where a fall could lead to longer swings. Stay confident in your placements and be mindful of rope drag, especially managing your slings carefully to reduce tension. The approach terrain is uneven; wear sturdy shoes and come prepared for sun exposure.
Start early to beat the intense midday sun on exposed granite.
Bring extra water as the approach and climb offer no natural shade or springs.
Wear sticky climbing shoes for secure footing on the rough desert face holds.
Double-check your long slings for reach on the left-leaning crack placements.
A standard trad rack with emphasis on many long slings is essential to protect the crack’s tricky sections and manage rope drag on the runout moves above.
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