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The Blob

California > Joshua Tree NP > Hidden Valley Area > Hidden Valley Campground
Warning Access Issue: Climbing Regulations/Seasonal Raptor Closures DetailsDrop down

Description

The Blob is the next large formation north of The Old Woman in Hidden Valley Campground.

On the East Face (facing the campground), Papa Woolsey (5.10b) is one of the few true JT "sport routes". Mama Woolsey (5.10a R) lies just right of Papa Woolsey, and is tricky to protect (think RP's) below the crux and a serious lead. Buissonier is a fun 5.7 around the corner left of the previous routes. Descents for these routes is an exposed walk-off to the south.

On the West Face, The Bong is an easily-protectable 5.4 that makes for an excellent first trad lead (Others include Beginner's Two (5.2) and Beginner's One (5.3). Hobbit Roof (5.10d) is short but sweet, and the crimpy crux is protected with a bolt.

Getting There

Buissonier and the Woolsey routes are approached through campsite (#21) along paved loop of HVCG. Be sure to ask for permission before charging through an occupied campsite.

Photos [Hide ALL Photos]

The Blob from The Iron Door Cave boulders.<br> Photo by Blitzo.
[Hide Photo] The Blob from The Iron Door Cave boulders. Photo by Blitzo.
The Blob <br> Super squirrel is always watching you
[Hide Photo] The Blob Super squirrel is always watching you
The Blob sunset
[Hide Photo] The Blob sunset

Comments [Hide ALL Comments]

Flying T
[Hide Comment] Down-climb for the north end looks exposed, but isn't bad. From atop The Bong et al, head east down the slab to find a short crack with ample plates for holds. Descend ~7 feet, then through an eye and past a deep cave (don't wake the residents). Straight down another short, exposed north-facing crack drops you about 50 feet east of The Bong. Apr 15, 2003
Jeff Buhl
[Hide Comment] If you are climbing up Beginners One or Beginners Two expect the down climb to be of about the same difficulty but much more exposed (and w/o a rope). For a rock with so many beginner climbs it could use a rap anchor. Looks like a few have been chopped. Apr 12, 2009
eddyizm
[Hide Comment] I agree with the comment above, with a rock with so many beginner routes, there should be at least one set of anchors for rapping (no TR) especially when you see the down climb as the crux of these routes. Jan 1, 2013
Greg Retkowski
San Diego
[Hide Comment] Beginner's Twenty-six has an accessible rap ring if you top out and don't want to do the 5th class "walk off" Apr 19, 2019