Joshua Tree National Park
Overview/Approach
Stirrup Rock
Remote (by Jtree standards) Stirrup Rock offers one of the better rock faces in all of Joshua Tree National Park. The heavily varnished south face also offers up one of the best moderate crack climbs in the park: Peter Eater Pumpkin Eater (5.10d). Dancin’ Daze (5.8) and Overpowered by Funk (5.12b) are also two of the better climbs at their grade in Joshua Tree.
Peter Eater Pumpkin Eater- 5.10d
Stirrup Tank is a seldom visited collection of granite spires located on the eastern fringes of Joshua Tree, beyond White Tank campground off of Cottonwood Springs Road (Pinto Basin). A tower resembling a western style stirrup (the “Stirrup”) gives the area its namesake. But the “Stirrup Rock” offers the most aesthetic climbs at Stirrup Tank via both north and south facing walls. Most of these routes were established in the 80’s by a variety of FAers. All of Stirrup Tank is a quiet area that you more than likely will have to yourself.
From the main park loop road, head east at the Cottonwood junction (Pinto Basin and/or Cottonwood Springs Road). Drive pass both campgrounds, Belle and White Tank. Fairly immediate after White Tank, turn left at Bovine Dome (parking area). Head down a dirt road to its end with a trailhead and restroom. Walk in and turn right down the first wash behind the rock facing the parking area. Head for the obvious dark wall in the distance, Stirrup Rock’s south face.
Route Description(s)
Routes Listed Left to Right as you Face the Walls
South Face
North Face
External Links
Images
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