Climbing Closures

Some areas of the park are permanently closed to rock climbing and bouldering due to their proximity to sensitive resources or private property. Other areas may be closed temporarily to protect sensitive wildlife.

 

Permanent Climbing and Bouldering Closures

Rock Climbing Routes

• Energy Crisis, on the east side of Little Hunk formation
• The Schwarzenegger Wall, at the north end of Rockwork Rock formation
• Zombie Woof Rock formation
• The Maverick Boulder formation

Bouldering Problems

• Pictograph Boulder, at the base of Queen Mountain
• Shindig, on Indian Cave Boulder
• Lonely Stones Area #3
• The Shipwreck formation
• The entire Indian Wave Boulders circut, except for Native Arete
• Wormholes, in The Underground

Private Property

• The private property across from the Hemingway parking area
• Keys Ranch: Visitors to the ranch must be accompanied by a park ranger; scheduled tours are available.

 

Seasonal Wildlife Closures

Currently there are no seasonal climbing closures. Our seasonal climbing closures usually runs from March through June to protect and respect nesting raptors. Though the nesting areas may change year to year, the most likely areas to be closed in the spring and early summer are: Slatanic Area, Towers of Uncertainty, Patagonia Pile, and Jerry's Quarry. If you are planning to climb in Joshua Tree National Park between March and June, please check this page before your visit to get the updated list of seasonal climbing closures.