Perched on the rugged blocks leaning into South Astro Dome’s eastern face, Hex Marks the Poot stands out as a bold invitation for climbers craving a solid crack climb with a little off-width spice. From the moment you approach near the Don Juan boulder, the line calls your name—a hand and fist crack that opens into a challenging off-width section, where body positioning and commitment meet. The route sits just left of the steep northeast face of South Astro Dome, its rough granite warm to the touch in the desert sun, while the wind carries the dry scent of creosote and distant Mojave scrub.

The initial pitch demands steady technique and judgment to navigate past a horizontal rail, encouraging climbers to balance precise face smearing on the right with committing jams on the left. This mix makes for engaging moves that reward a thoughtful approach rather than pure power. Reaching a roomy alcove crowned by awkward, sculpted horn features, you’ll find natural anchors for belaying, or the option to push onward to the second pitch.

The upper pitch veers right on a crack that’s a touch more subtle than the first, providing a continuous crack climb that can be combined with the first pitch if you’re packing long slings. The granite’s texture here offers enough friction for confident placements, though the protection is geared toward smaller cams, requiring a careful rack layout. The absence of fixed anchors means planning your rappel with slings around the horns is essential but straightforward.

Hex Marks the Poot is a two-pitch classic that balances desert grit with technical off-width climbing—perfect for climbers comfortable with hand and fist cracks who want a taste of Joshua Tree’s varied granite. The route runs about 120 feet total and usually feels at a steady 5.8 difficulty, though the first pitch can flirt with 5.7+ depending on conditions and your style. This climb isn’t for gym wall specialists but rather for those ready to embrace friction, jams, and the desert’s quiet challenge wrapped in a straightforward approach.

Getting here is part of the experience, with a brief walk from the Black Rocks parking, weaving through low desert scrub and sun-baked rock formations. Early morning or late afternoon offer the most comfortable temperatures, with shade trickling over parts of the climb mid to late day. A helmet is a must, as loose rock can occasionally dislodge from the blocks above.

What sets Hex Marks the Poot apart is its tangible connection to the land—a climb that speaks plainly through its crack with no fluff or finesse distractions. It teaches you to listen to your gear placements, trust your feet on face holds, and move deliberately through sections that invite both patience and flow. The solitude around South Astro Dome often means you can savor the silence except for the rattle of cams sliding or the occasional cricket song in the nearby brush.

When packing for this route, think sturdy off-width gear: larger camalots to anchor the off-width, a full range of hand and fist-sized protection, and webbing for belay setups. Shoes with solid edging capabilities and a firm sole will help you smear that face hold with confidence. Hydration is crucial—this desert can sap energy quickly, and climbing off-width demands physical output beyond mere technique. Timing your climb to avoid high midday heat keeps your fingers from losing grip and your mind sharp.

Hex Marks the Poot is a rewarding climb that combines straightforward access with meaningful, committed climbing in a spectacular landscape. Whether knocking out a long day in Wonderland of Rocks or simply chasing that off-width thrill, this route offers a mix of texture, challenge, and quiet beauty unique to Joshua Tree’s granite spires.