Lollipop Boulder sits quietly just 30 yards west of the well-known Charleston Chew and Rock Candy boulders, tucked close to the dirt pullout behind another imposing rock formation. This spot offers climbers a focused, sun-warmed experience with three distinct south-southwest-facing sport routes that pack a satisfying punch for those seeking moderate grades in a compact and accessible setting. At an elevation of 4,667 feet, the boulder basks in favorable weather conditions typical of the Alabama Hills region, making it a solid choice for winter and spring climbing when temperatures are milder and the sun’s path hits the face at an inviting angle.

The routes here—Sugar Daddy (5.10b), Sweet Spot (5.10a), and Cane Sugar (5.8)—are bolted climbs, each featuring four bolts and a reliable anchor system. Sugar Daddy and Sweet Spot share an anchor known as Mussey’s, while Cane Sugar finishes at a separate chained anchor. These routes provide a clear focus on sport climbing technique and endurance, rewarding those who enjoy technical sequences on moderately challenging rock.

Approach to Lollipop Boulder is straightforward for climbers already familiar with the nearby Candy Store area. From the established pullout, it’s a short walk across flat terrain with low scrub, ensuring quick access without the hassle of rugged trails or brush. The gentle approach invites spontaneous sessions or a warm-up stop before venturing to more demanding climbs in Alabama Hills. Climbers should time their visits for the prime seasons — typically late fall through early spring — when daytime temperatures are comfortable and the wall’s southern aspect maximizes solar warmth without overheating.

The surrounding Alabama Hills offer a unique climbing atmosphere, with vast skies and dramatic rock formations shaped by wind and water over millennia. The Lollipop Boulder, while more diminutive than the larger nearby walls, delivers a focused experience highlighted by the crisp, clean lines of its sport routes. It fits perfectly into a day of climbing peppered with boulder problems and trad routes in the nearby Candy Store sector.

Sugar Daddy stands out as the highlight here, rated 5.10b and receiving solid praise for its quality movement and well-placed bolts. Its 3.5-star rating signals a classic route that consistently attracts climbers looking to stretch their limits without stepping into the arena of extremes. Meanwhile, Sweet Spot offers a close cousin challenge at an approachable 5.10a, excellent for refining technique while enjoying the warmth of the southern sun. Cane Sugar serves as a more accessible variant for climbers wanting to cruise up a 5.8 route in the same welcoming environment.

This locale demands respect for the desert climate—days can be hot and dry, nights cool and crisp. Water sources are scarce, so climbers should plan accordingly. The rock is solid but requires attention to hold quality, especially following weather events. Since the area is informal and less trafficked than some of the larger destination walls, climbers will find peace and quiet paired with raw, unfiltered adventure.

Whether you are targeting hard sport moves or seeking a relaxed spot for a midday project, Lollipop Boulder offers a little gem in California’s Alabama Hills. It’s a place to refine skills, soak up the sun’s rays, and feel the pulse of a landscape that has long been a favorite among climbers of all stripes. With straightforward access, consistently good rock, and memorable routes like Sugar Daddy, this area beckons with the promise of sun-dappled, accessible climbing that respects the desert’s rhythm and rewards focused effort.