"Hat Head presents a classic 5.8 trad climb on a sharp L-shaped crack in the Green Valley Lake Pinnacles. Its single 40-foot pitch offers a technically accessible yet engaging route with reliable gear placements and a shaded, peaceful walkoff."
Hat Head stands as a straightforward yet engaging climb, ideal for trad enthusiasts eager to experience the quiet promise of the San Bernardino Mountains. This route ascends a distinctive L-shaped crack skirting the right side of the prow, a striking feature that catches the eye as you approach from the roadside. The climb stretches about 40 feet, committed to a single pitch that balances technical crack work with manageable exposure. Though not intimidating in difficulty, the 5.8 rating carries a solid challenge for newer climbers stepping into trad climbing and provides an opportunity for veterans to sharpen their crack technique without overextending.
The approach to the climb sweeps through Green Valley Lake Pinnacles, a rugged zone tucked within the low-traffic corners of the Running Springs area. The terrain is forested and quiet, with pine and mixed conifers shading the trail that cuts through mild elevation. Those setting out should anticipate approximately a 20-minute hike over well-worn but uneven paths, keeping an eye on GPS coordinates (34.24987 N, -117.05936 W) to locate the formation precisely.
As you make your way up the crack, the rock quality is mostly solid, with occasional flakes demanding careful attention, especially near the anchor where gear placements are critical. Protection relies primarily on cams up to 3 inches, making a balanced rack essential. Fixed gear is absent, so climbers must rely on their own placements to safeguard the ascent fully.
The area around the climb offers natural shelter from intense sunlight by heading to the climber’s right toward the walkoff. This not only provides a cooler descent but also a quiet moment to gather with the forest’s quiet soundtrack—the whisper of the breeze and distant birdcalls blending with the rustic texture of the rock. Summer months see pleasant early morning shade on the route, but afternoons can bring warming sun, so plan your climb accordingly to avoid heat exhaustion.
Hat Head's uncomplicated pitch can be a refreshing blend of challenge and accessibility, perfect as a short outing or part of a larger day exploring Green Valley Lake Pinnacles. Whether you’re honing crack skills or simply savoring the stillness of the San Bernardino backcountry, this route offers a focused climbing experience with enough detail to satisfy the practical climber’s checklist.
While the route is short and approachable, climbers should remain vigilant about gear placements, especially near the anchor where rock flakes can shift. The approach trail has uneven terrain, so watch your step to prevent ankle injuries. Heat exposure can also be a risk in summer afternoons without proper hydration.
Start early to avoid afternoon heat; the route gains shade in the morning.
Wear shoes suited for crack climbing to improve grip on the narrow fissure.
Approach involves a forested path with uneven ground—sturdy footwear and attention to footing are essential.
The walkoff to the back and right of the route stays shaded and cool even on hot days.
Bring a full trad rack with cams sized up to 3 inches for protection. No fixed gear is present, so rely on solid placements especially near the anchor. A standard rack with a focus on small to medium-sized cams will keep the ascent secure.
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