Rising above the High Desert landscape at an elevation of nearly 3,850 feet, Scott Cosgrove Memorial Buttress commands both respect and intrigue from climbers seeking adventure off the beaten path. Its location within the New Jack City sector near Barstow, California, places it as a rugged starting point for exploration into the legendary Cliffs of Insanity. The buttress, a tribute renamed in honor of Scott Cosgrove, showcases routes developed by climbers who shaped this terrain — Cosgrove himself, Geoff Fullerton, and Jack Marshall.

The journey to this crag demands commitment. From the West Canyon parking lot, prepare for a long, rewarding walk. For those opting from the East Canyon side, the Twin Towers trail invites climbers into the wild, skirting the gully left of well-known features like Hard Rock Cafe and Slab City. The approach culminates with a brief but notable six-foot scramble just before reaching the first line. The trail negotiates a mix of forested slopes and exposed slabs, rewarding effort with sweeping views and the silent anticipation of vertical conquest.

At Scott Cosgrove Memorial Buttress, the rock tells a story both of wild desert beauty and technical climbing challenges. The routes here range from approachable moderate lines like Kestrel Dihedral (5.7) and Bombs Away (5.9) to more demanding ventures such as 2016 (5.11) and The DX (5.13a). The DX stands out as the hardest, most celebrated route, reflecting the area's capacity to test even seasoned climbers. Classic climbs present do not overwhelm with quantity but offer quality and character on solid rock, preserving a distinct rugged vibe that draws those craving a raw outdoor experience.

With 18 routes to select from, climbers will find single-pitch crags and multi-pitch challenges, all set on rock formations that require focus and respect. The rock texture and formation specifics are mixed within the broader High Desert environment, blending sun-baked slabs with shadowed gullies, making timing crucial for comfort on the wall. Early spring through late fall provide optimal climbing windows when the weather is generally stable and temperatures moderate, avoiding the harsh extremes of summer heat or winter chill.

Navigating this climbing area means equipping yourself with solid protection gear—mostly traditional gear—as the routes predominantly feature classic placements rather than bolted sport lines. Given the approach and the multi-faceted terrain, climbers are recommended to bring a double rack, including cams of various sizes, and be ready for some route-finding skills on descent paths.

Descending typically involves a walk-off approach with short downclimbs and scrambles; hence, paying close attention to the route back is vital, especially as shadows lengthen and temperatures drop. While the rock quality on the main routes is dependable, alertness is necessary near the edges and scramble sections where loose rock may pose risks.

Scott Cosgrove Memorial Buttress is not just a climbing destination; it is a gateway into the vast, quiet high desert where effort meets reward in the form of expansive natural views and satisfying climbs. The proximity to the Cliffs of Insanity area means that many who come here first are eager—or well-prepared—to continue exploring the surrounding walls and spires.

For those ready to explore beyond the usual popular sites, this crag offers a serious, reflective adventure that combines solitude with climbing history. Whether you’re topping out on Bombs Away or challenging yourself on The DX, you’ll find that this buttress delivers climbing and atmosphere with equal measure.