Kahanna carves a bold line in the rugged face of the San Bernardino Mountains, offering a climbing experience that challenges both balance and finesse. From the moment you step onto the ramp, the route asserts itself with a delicate sequence demanding precision and confidence. The approach up the ramp is not just a physical test—it requires calm calculation as the angle pushes your footing and weight distribution. Past this balancing act, the climb pivots into technical territory beneath a stubborn roof where committed moves become mandatory.

Emerging from the roof’s shadow, climbers are met with the payoff: a striking finger crack that runs like a lifeline up the rock. This crack grabs your fingers and rewards steady hands with secure jams and delicate placements. There's a raw honesty in every hold, each one requiring intention and connection with the stone. The rock above the bolt demands respect—its loose pockets warn the belayer to stay sharp and vigilant throughout the ascent.

At a modest length of 60 feet and rated 5.10a, Kahanna is a single-pitch test that packs a concentrated punch. The protection layout mixes a lone bolt at the bottom with small cams ranging from tiny yellow Metolius TCU to orange and yellow Camalots up to 1 inch in size. Placement is tricky and calls for a confident rack with specialized gear if you want to protect the crux moves and the tricky ramp section effectively. Chains at the top provide a secure anchor for descent or lowering.

Located within the Big Bear Lake Area, the access to Kahanna follows forested trails that grow quieter the closer you get to Hanna Rocks. The route climaxes high enough that sweeping views of the San Bernardino range reward the effort, with the scent of pine and dry rock blending in the warm air. This spot beckons repeat visits, promising a climb as rewarding as it is demanding.

Plan your climb to avoid the hottest parts of summer—morning or late-afternoon ascents offer the best conditions with comfortable temperatures and shade cast by the southern-facing wall. Proper footwear with good edge stability will be key on the balancing approach, and make no mistake: hydration and clear headspace will carry you through the technical crux and finger crack that define this climb.

Kahanna is not for the faint-hearted or the gear-light. It’s a route where precision pays dividends and where every move demands a full commitment. Whether you’re looking to sharpen your trad skills or simply test your ability on a technical crack featured in a rewarding high-desert environment, Kahanna stands ready to challenge and inspire.