Witness Protection presents a fresh challenge on the Apple Valley Crags, offering a brief but impressive trad climb that tests your gear skills on steep terrain. From the moment you start, the route commands respect, with a noticeable incline that pushes slightly harder than typical 5.8 pitches. Loose holds pepper the early moves, demanding focused attention and careful hand placements. As you ascend, the rock tightens beneath your fingers, leading to a series of protection placements that reward both technique and patience. The climb’s centerpiece is a bold, exposed slab near the top—airy but not overwhelming—that gently eases the tension and invites climbers to savor the moment. This slab finish reveals views of the High Desert’s open expanse, where dry air and distant ridges meet a wide sky.

Protection on Witness Protection calls for traditional gear up to 3 inches, augmented by a single bolt that eases the protection rhythm before you reach the two-bolt anchor. This setup offers a good balance between natural placements and fixed hardware, giving climbers security while maintaining the route’s adventurous character. Planning your rack accordingly is key: bring a full complement of cams and nuts up to #3 Camalot to cover every crack and flake.

Approaching the climb, you’ll find the trail steep but straightforward, winding through sparse desert scrub and patches of hardy pines that filter the afternoon light. Expect a 10-15 minute approach from the main trailhead, with GPS coordinates at 34.5599 latitude and -117.12673 longitude directing you right to the base. Temperatures here swing sharply, so starting early helps avoid peak midday heat. Footwear with firm edging and sticky rubber is preferred to confidently handle the steep slabs and loose rock sections.

Though brief, the climb’s single pitch packs a rewarding blend of exposure, technical gear placements, and solid rock quality—if the loose holds are carefully managed. Safety-wise, stay vigilant on the approach and early moves where small rockfall can occur. The route is well suited for adventurous climbers transitioning from beginner to intermediate trad routes, offering a glimpse of real desert climbing with a taste of exposure and gear variety.

Once you top out, the descent is straightforward via walk-off along a sloping ledge system to the west, minimizing the need for rappelling. This makes for a smooth exit, perfect for those keen on knocking out multiple routes in a day. Witness Protection offers a slice of spirited climbing in a less traveled part of the Apple Valley area, where rugged landscapes and open skies encourage both focus and freedom. Whether you’re sharpening trad skills or craving a short, lively climb, this route delivers a clean shot of desert climbing without frills but with plenty of character.