Love Child offers a focused, slabby face route that challenges climbers with its subtle technical moves and careful footwork. Located high above the Running Springs area, this 30-foot sport climb demands precision more than brute strength. The route revolves around a crux just beyond the second bolt, where a decisive leftward move eases the difficulty and rewards those who read the rock carefully. Unlike steeper, more overhanging walls, Love Child presents a measured pace where balance and body positioning become your best allies. The granite here is firm but polished in places, requiring smooth, controlled motion rather than aggressive pulling.

The approach crosses the shaded groves of Children's Forest, a quietly inviting stretch with tall pines filtering dappled sunlight onto soft dirt paths. This pleasant walk sets the tone, placing climbers in a serene environment away from busier spots in the San Bernardinos. Once at Preschool Rock, you’ll find a small but well-established crag offering a handful of sport routes that cater to both emerging and seasoned climbers seeking a brief, focused challenge.

Protection is straightforward: two bolts lead the climb, ending at secure chain anchors. This setup emphasizes clean clipping efficiency and joining the anchor with care, as the route’s short length leaves no room for unnecessary hesitation. Because the rock is slabby, footwear with reliable edging performance is a big advantage here. Your shoes will need to grip with confidence on smoothed granite, especially around the crux where shifting your weight leftward helps unlock the move.

Timing your visit in mid to late spring or early fall will reward you with mild temperatures and generally dry rock; summer heat can bake the face and sap energy quickly. Morning sessions bring cooling shade, thanks to the west-facing angle that lets the sun warm the rock gently without overexposing climbers. Descending is quick and safe via a standard rappel from the chains, allowing you to regroup at the base within moments.

For those looking to sharpen their slab technique or add a short, high-quality sport route to their list, Love Child packs a satisfying punch. The route’s moderate difficulty and straightforward protection make it an accessible project while remaining engaging enough to push your movement skills. Embrace the sound of gentle wind through the pines and the focused silence of feet shifting on stone here—it's a quiet reminder that sometimes the smallest climbs offer the clearest lessons.