"King Tut Vs. John Wayne Live at Caesars Palace delivers a focused 40-foot sport climb in Alabama Hills, blending technical sequences with solid protection. This 5.10a route offers a taste of precision climbing amid the dramatic, wind-carved granite desert landscape."
Tucked into the rugged contours of Alabama Hills, the sport climb King Tut Vs. John Wayne Live at Caesars Palace offers a compelling blend of technical moves and solid rock that challenge climbers craving precision and focus. The route begins at the base of a prominent boulder, where the quality stone immediately demands respect. Its initial moves require careful footwork and finger strength as the rock surface offers positive but subtle holds. After negotiating the steeper section, the climb eases into a more manageable series of moves, allowing you a moment to savor the striking desert light filtering down, casting shifting shadows that play across the gritty stone.
Measuring just 40 feet, this concise wall packs a punch with a 5.10a rating that rewards climbers who enjoy problem-solving on sport routes with fixed protection. Five bolts anchor the climb, each spaced with enough room to test your ability to clip while maintaining solid rests. The route lies just right of Pharaohs On Fungi, a slightly thinner and more strenuous option that caters to climbers ready for an extra push.
Alabama Hills itself is a playground of granite formations shaped over millennia, where the sharp silhouettes of weathered rock rise boldly against the vast California sky. Here, the landscape is framed by the looming Sierra Nevada, its jagged peaks providing a dramatic backdrop to your ascent. The dry desert air carries the scent of sun-warmed stone, and a steady breeze hums through the scattered sagebrush and scraggly junipers.
Access is straightforward with a short approach from local parking areas, making it a perfect quick classic for climbers eager to fit in quality moves without extensive treks. Footwear with sticky rubber and a chalk bag are essentials, as the route’s holds demand tactile attention. Early morning or late afternoon sessions offer the most comfortable temperatures, allowing the rock to warm without overheated grips, and shade from the afternoon sun grants some relief during hotter months.
This climb’s mix of firm rock, thoughtfully placed bolts, and variety in movement makes it an inviting challenge that appeals both to those sharpening their sport skills and those seeking a brief but satisfying climb in a uniquely wild setting. The area around Lone Pine also offers great opportunities to unwind post-climb with scenic views and vibrant desert sunsets. Whether it is your first time exploring Alabama Hills or a return visit, King Tut Vs. John Wayne Live at Caesars Palace is a spirited route that demands attention and rewards each clipped bolt with moments of flow and accomplishment.
Although well-protected, climbers should take care clipping the early bolts as the approach can be windy and the footholds are small. The rock quality is solid but dust can accumulate, making holds feel slick, especially later in the day.
Arrive early or late afternoon to avoid the harsh midday sun and enjoy moderate temperatures.
Use climbing shoes with precise edging to best navigate the subtle holds on the initial moves.
Chalk up regularly; the rock is solid but can be slick with desert dust and heat.
Be mindful of wind gusts common in Alabama Hills, which can affect your balance on exposed sections.
The route is bolted with five fixed anchors spaced to provide safe clipping options, requiring sport climbing gear such as quickdraws and a harness. Sticky rubber shoes and chalk will enhance grip on the fine edges and pockets throughout the climb.
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