Hit Man at Underworld Rock: A Bold Sport Climb Near San Francisco

San Francisco, California United States
sport climbing
roof move
single pitch
granite
technical
San Francisco Bay Area
Length: 70 ft
Type: Sport
Stars
Pitches
1
Location
Hit Man
Aspect
South Facing

Overview

"Hit Man delivers a tight 70-foot sport climb on Underworld Rock’s Southwest face. This route challenges climbers with a powerful roof move and delicate, technical sequences set against the rugged backdrop of Castle Rock’s granite."

Hit Man at Underworld Rock: A Bold Sport Climb Near San Francisco

Hit Man carves a bold line on the left flank of Underworld Rock’s Southwest face, delivering a lean, technical sport climb that blends sharp movement with a touch of grit. From the moment you lock into the first bolt, the route demands focus as you navigate a brief, powerful sequence before veering right toward a large hueco nestled just beneath a short overhang. Pulling through this roof tests both strength and composure, the rock feeling alive beneath your fingertips. The climb then smooths out, easing up over less steep terrain, allowing for a slower pace to the anchor.

Approached from the Castle Rock Area within the vibrant San Francisco Bay Area, Hit Man rewards climbers who thrive on precise technique and controlled power. Its single pitch stretches roughly 70 feet and features four bolts leading to a two-bolt anchor, lending clear protection without excess gear. A shared start with Drug Lord means familiarity for locals but remains a fresh challenge for those stepping onto Underworld Rock’s imposing slab.

The granite here is firm, but expect occasional sharp edges that invite attention to hand and foothold placement. As the rock shifts from vertical to slightly less steep, the route’s character reveals itself: a contrast of raw athleticism and measured movement. The surrounding area offers a quiet refuge from urban bustle, with towering trees brushing the sky above and subtle breezes warming the rock in early morning. Planning your climb for mid-morning ensures the holds are dry and temperatures comfortable.

Practical considerations include sturdy climbing shoes to grip the smaller edges and an awareness that the bolts give confidence but require precise clipping to keep momentum. Water and sunscreen are essential—even on cool mornings—as the Southwest aspect exposes climbers to direct light for much of the ascent. The approach trail is straightforward, dropping from Castle Rock’s parking areas along a well-marked path that takes 20 minutes to reach the rock base.

After topping out, the descent is quick and efficient via rappels back to the ground. The two-bolt anchor is solid and reliable, making coming down uneventful even for those newer to the area. With its moderate ratings, Hit Man offers an accessible yet invigorating experience perfect for intermediate climbers pushing their limits in a stunning, approachable setting.

Climber Safety

The roof section requires confident clipping and body positioning; loose movement here could cause a fall. Hold edges are sharp, so careful hand placements and sturdy footwear are crucial. Be mindful of sun exposure when planning your climb to avoid overheating.

Route Details

TypeSport
Pitches1
Length70 feet

Local Tips

Arrive early to catch cooler temperatures and dry rock.

Wear shoes with good edging capability; the holds are sharp and small.

Avoid climbing after rain; the rock can be slick, especially near the roof section.

Plan for a quick descent using the solid two-bolt anchor rappel.

Route Rating

Difficulty
5.10a
Quality
Consensus:At 5.10a, Hit Man offers a solid challenge that feels true to grade, with a crux move pulling through the roof that demands power and precision. The rating is neither soft nor overly stiff, fitting well within the 5.10 range typical of Underworld Rock. Climbers familiar with nearby routes like Drug Lord will find it comparable in commitment and technical demand.

Gear Requirements

Hit Man is protected by four bolts on the climb leading to a two-bolt anchor. No additional gear is needed, making it an efficient single-pitch sport route perfect for focused climbing.

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Tags

sport climbing
roof move
single pitch
granite
technical
San Francisco Bay Area