"Hot Tub Honey is a brief, accessible trad climb on Joshua Tree’s Hodgepodge Rock offering a shaded, solid face at moderate 5.8 difficulty. Perfect as a warm-up or a gentle introduction to the area’s granite features."
Hot Tub Honey offers a straightforward introduction to traditional climbing on the North Face of Hodgepodge Rock within Joshua Tree National Park. This single-pitch, 40-foot route sits at the quieter edge of a cluster of climbs near Group Campsite 8, providing a welcome shade refuge in the early afternoon when temperatures rise. The rock here feels solid under hand and foot, with well-spaced bolts securing the route’s three protection points, but the climbing itself remains easy at a 5.8 rating, making it an accessible challenge for beginners or as a warm-up for more demanding climbs nearby.
While it lacks the excitement of some neighboring lines, Hot Tub Honey’s simplicity has its place. The face climbs steadily without surprises, offering clean rock and the kind of confidence-building moves that help less experienced climbers find their rhythm. The anchor system at the top requires medium cams, so having a modest rack ready complements the route’s three reliable bolts. Protection is straightforward but essential – the bolts encourage smooth upward movement, while the gear ensures safety at the belay.
Once you reach the anchors, retreating is quick and secure. A short rappel uses two bolts, descending efficiently to the base where the air cools back down under the shade of the surrounding rock outcrops. The approach to Hot Tub Honey is an easy hike from Group Campsite 8 along well-trodden paths, making access simple and convenient.
The North Face aspect means the climb escapes direct afternoon sun, especially in warmer months, which makes it an ideal stop for those looking to avoid heat exhaustion in the desert. It’s not a route that draws large crowds, so you can expect moments of calm where the desert’s quiet steals your attention more than the climb’s subtle challenges.
In the broader picture, Hot Tub Honey sits within a compact climbing area characterized by a handful of moderate routes, suitable as skill builders or gentle introductions to Joshua Tree’s unique granite texture. Surrounding climbs offer more demanding sequences and varied movement, making this a solid starting point before stepping up to harder grades. Whether you’re easing into the day or winding down after tougher climbs, Hot Tub Honey provides a clear, manageable experience framed by the stark beauty of California’s high desert.
The rappel descent relies on two bolts above a well-bolted anchor; double-check anchor integrity before descending. A short rappel with clear landing reduces risk, but caution is advised given the desert’s variable conditions.
Aim for early afternoon to catch the route in shade and avoid the midday desert heat.
Bring medium cams to complete your rack—bolts protect the main climb but anchors need pro.
Combine this climb with nearby routes for a varied warm-up session.
Use group campsite 8 as your staging point for easy access and quieter surroundings.
The climb is protected by three well-placed bolts and requires medium cams for anchor setup at the top. Minimal gear is needed beyond standard trad essentials, but medium-sized cams are critical for a secure belay.
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