In the heart of the Santa Monica Mountains, the Tea Room offers a distinctive climbing experience crowned by 'Inspect Her Cool Soul,' a sharp and engaging sport route that tests both finesse and composure. This 85-foot single-pitch climb stakes its claim on the far right edge of the Tea Room's east wall, a section where sunlit rock meets textured holds that invite a thoughtful approach. From the very first move, you’re compelled to bridge across a gap onto a set of solid, positive grips perched just above a pronounced roof, setting the tone for a climb that is equal parts technical and dynamic.

The climb quickly transitions onto the vertical face where the headwall demands precision in footwork and steady upper body strength. Here, every hold feels intentional, carved from rock that pushes and pulls at your balance as you navigate upward. Moving past the headwall, the route arcs right, leading you across a water groove etched into the limestone – an element that seems almost alive, as if the rock itself urges the climber to find rhythm in the flow. This groove provides both a visual marker and a subtle challenge, encouraging you to trust in your technique.

Finishing on the arete just to the right of the groove, the climb wraps up with a final push that merges exposure with confidence. The anchors sit smartly at the top, secured by a well-spaced chain ring and bolted firmly into place, giving a dependable stance for lowering or belaying partners. Featuring nine bolts, protection aligns thoughtfully along the climb, offering solid security while preserving the route’s natural flow.

Approaching 'Inspect Her Cool Soul' is straightforward, accessible within the larger Tea Room area, which itself commands views over the rolling Los Angeles Basin. The setting is approachable for climbers who crave an intersection of natural challenge and urban proximity, meaning you can fulfill your craving for adventure without straying far from the city. Expect a brief, mostly level hike in from established parking, with the rock face catching the morning sun, making early starts particularly rewarding.

Preparation is key for this route. Lightweight sport gear is optimal, focusing on quickdraws compatible with 9-bolt protection. Sturdy, grippy shoes will serve well on the polished limestone, and a helmet is advisable given some loose debris in the immediate access area. Water and sun protection are musts throughout the warmer months, as the exposed ledges invite sun without much shade.

With a rating of 5.9, this climb sits in an accessible range, yet it demands respect for its balance of technical bridging and sustained face climbing. It offers an ideal progression route for those moving into more vertical terrain but still craving a route with character and subtle complexity. The line remains a favored weekend choice among local sport climbers, who appreciate its clean bolts, tangible exposure, and unique positioning within the Tea Room’s complex.

Deploy steady effort, mind your foot placements on the headwall, and enjoy the tactile dialogue between your hands and the stone as you ascend. At the top, pause to take in the vast sprawl of the Los Angeles Basin below, a thrilling reminder that urban pulse and wild rocks collide just beyond city limits.