Owing Homage in California’s Inland Empire offers an authentic, rugged climbing experience set just north of the well-traveled High Voltage area. The landscape here opens into a dispersed cluster of quality boulders, inviting climbers to explore at their own pace amid rocky outcrops that feel touched by the pioneering spirit of Sam Owing — one of the earliest known climbers to venture into these flats. Its signature problem, "World's Best Thin Crack," presents a challenging V6 test piece, demanding precise finger jams and delicate footwork on rock roughly 1,600 feet above sea level.

Approaching Owing Homage requires a bit of savvy and respect. Access threads through private property, meaning a low-profile approach is essential. A rough single-lane dirt road with a 4-wheel drive stretch leads you to a recommended parking spot marked by a split boulder about 100 feet uphill on your right. From there, climbers enter an area rich with potential but also bounds to tread carefully. Private fences mark off sections that lure the eye, but climbing within those fences isn’t allowed, so abiding by local boundaries is not only courteous — it preserves access for everyone.

The quiet charm of this area is its spread-out collection of boulders, offering a laid-back yet rewarding climbing escapade away from crowded hubs. You’ll find the rock quality solid though varied — enough to test balance and strength but also expose why Sam Owing’s early climbs hold a revered place in regional lore. Weather here shifts seasonally, with prime climbing windows typically in the cooler months when precipitation is at its lowest and temperatures moderate. Keep in mind that McIntyre Road’s main access point sits near a church labeled with no trespassing signs — it's critical to avoid causing disturbance or drawing unwanted attention. Illegal dumping has been a concern, so arriving discreetly and packing out everything is an unspoken rule of respect.

Climbers should prepare for an off-the-beaten-path approach that leans on 4WD or AWD vehicles to navigate the less traveled dirt road. There's no developed trail, which lends an added layer of adventure — every step is a small discovery across the sun-dipped flats. While the area doesn’t offer expansive climbing genres like sport or traditional routes, its handful of challenging bouldering routes, particularly the technically demanding "World’s Best Thin Crack," provide a distinctive challenge for those focused on finger cracks and compression climbing.

Aside from the physical challenge, the area’s quiet surrounds and open desert air offer a welcome break from crowded gyms and busy crags. It’s an ideal spot for climbers seeking a blend of solitary focus and connection with rugged California backcountry terrain. Respectful conduct here helps preserve this special pocket of climbing, ensuring more visits for future adventurers.

To prepare for the climb, pack plenty of water, bring your crash pads, and plan your approach carefully to avoid trespassing. While the rock is inviting, the reality of access and terrain demands mindfulness. This keeps climbing safe, sustainable, and enjoyable for all who come to sample Owing Homage’s unique character and storied lines.