Page Type:
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Route |
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Route Type:
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Technical Rock Climb |
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Time Required:
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Less than two hours |
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Difficulty:
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5.10a |
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Approach
It takes about a half an hour to walk / scramble to the base of Solid Gold out in the Wonderland of Rocks. Park at the lot closest to Uncle Willie's Food Store, a now pile of rubble historical site. The easiest way to not get lost is to follow the wash until you spot South Astrodome off in the distance to your left. From here you must scramble up the slab and boulders to S. Astrodome, to the obvious gold streaked wall on the Northeast Face, where you will find Solid Gold.
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Route Description
This is a very fun Joshua Tree classic! The first pitch of Solid Gold is a six bolt, very sustained, crimpy, face climb, with run-outs between the 3rd and 4th bolts and from the 6th to the belay ledge. You will need pro for building an anchor and for the second pitch of mostly 5.8 crack. Two rappels are necessary on a 60m rope, with the second rap anchors to the right of the belay ledge.
Essential Gear
Quick draws and the guide book recommends thin to 1.5 inches.
Miscellaneous Info
If you have information about this route that doesn't pertain to any of the other sections, please add it here.
Michele - Dec 4, 2003 12:47 pm - Hasn't voted
Route CommentOn 12 / 01 / 03 I was informed that Solid Gold is covered in raptor droppings, depleting purchase on many of the essential holds. This will increase the fall potential. However, the bird droppings are most likely a short term issue. Climb with care.
ksolem - Apr 25, 2006 5:25 am - Hasn't voted
Second PitchPitch two as you describe it - 5.8 cracks to the top - is actually the route "My Laundry." Pitch two of "Solid Gold" follows a crack diagonalling up climbers left and then climbs a steep face and spectacular traverse passing three bolts before topping out. 5.10a. Personally I think this is the better pitch of the route, wild unlikely and exposed. Good fun.