HomeClimbingKatz's Deli

Katz's Deli: A Bold Sport Climb in the San Bernardino Mountains

Big Bear Lake, California United States
sport climbing
single pitch
technical start
sloping top-out
granite
California
San Bernardino Mountains
Length: 40 ft
Type: Sport
Stars
Pitches
1
Location
Katz's Deli
Aspect
South Facing

Overview

"Katz's Deli delivers a compact, powerful 40-foot sport climb in the San Bernardino Mountains. Featuring a technical start and a gripping sloping top-out, it’s a perfect route for climbers ready to sharpen their skills in a striking mountain setting."

Katz's Deli: A Bold Sport Climb in the San Bernardino Mountains

Katz's Deli offers a compact but engaging climb set within the rugged contours of the San Bernardino Mountains, a place where granite faces carve the skyline above Big Bear Lake. This single-pitch sport route stretches 40 feet, demanding early focus with a somewhat tricky start that quickly pulls you into a gritty groove. The climb's defining feature is a sharp dike running upward—its edges not just guiding but inviting you upward to a ledge that serves as a brief respite before the finale. The top-out challenges climbers with a sloping, grainy finish that tests balance and nerve, requiring careful footwork to avoid sliding on the less-than-stable rock surface. The protection consists of five well-placed bolts, providing solid security while still leaving room for thoughtful movement.

Surrounded by the dry, pine-scented air and the echo of distant valley winds, Katz's Deli feels like a punchy dose of mountain climbing energy distilled into a concise sequence. The wall faces east, catching the morning sun and making early starts rewarding for those who want to beat the heat. Given its location in the Holcomb Valley Pinnacles, the approach is manageable on foot, weaving through a mixture of dusty trails and scattered boulders approximately 15 minutes from the nearest parking area.

For climbers eyeing a technically engaging route without the commitment of long, multi-pitch endeavors, Katz's Deli sits comfortably in the moderate grade of 5.10a—steep enough to push skills but accessible with regular training. While the route involves a solid lead on sport-protected rock, its grainy top-out demands vigilance as the holds thin and the footing becomes less reliable. This climb opens the door to exploring more of what the Pinnacles have to offer, from rugged ridge lines to scenic forest views, ideal for a day trip that balances effort and enjoyment.

Approaching the route, solid climbing shoes with sticky rubber are crucial to maximize grip on the sloping finish. A helmet is always advised given the loose nature of some surface rock near the top. Hydration and sun protection matter on warmer days, as the exposed terrain offers little shade once the sun rises fully above the ridge. For those planning their visit, early spring through late fall offers the best conditions—winters bring the risk of wet, slick rock and chilly winds that can dampen the ascent.

Ultimately, Katz's Deli is a climb that challenges in its brevity and rewards with a focused sequence of moves rooted in both power and finesse. It invites climbers to engage with the mountain's natural character—a playful yet practical test of technique amid the raw beauty of the San Bernardinos.

Climber Safety

Loose grain near the final top-out calls for extra caution. Helmets are recommended, as small rockfall can occur due to the fragile surface. Also, be mindful of the exposed nature of the route and avoid climbing when wet or after heavy rain.

Route Details

TypeSport
Pitches1
Length40 feet

Local Tips

Start early to take advantage of the morning sun on the east-facing wall.

Wear shoes with sticky rubber to handle the sloping, grainy top-out.

Carry plenty of water and apply sun protection—shade is minimal by midday.

Beware of loose rock near the top and wear a helmet for safety.

Route Rating

Difficulty
5.10a
Quality
Consensus:Rated 5.10a, Katz's Deli offers a solid challenge without tipping into advanced territory. The grading feels accurate, with the crux residing in the initial moves and the balance-dependent top-out. Compared to nearby routes, it’s a reliable test for intermediate climbers looking to push their technique in a short but concentrated effort.

Gear Requirements

The route is secured by five bolts spaced to offer solid protection but requires careful clip management on the tricky start and the delicate top-out. Bring standard sport climbing draws and a helmet for loose rock near the finish.

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Tags

sport climbing
single pitch
technical start
sloping top-out
granite
California
San Bernardino Mountains