The sprawling L.A. Basin, bound on the north by the Santa Monica Mountains, the Santa Ana Mountains to the east and south, and to the west by the Pacific Ocean, is home to more than 10 million residents. The city of Los Angeles itself (pop. 4 million) is the second largest in the United States (New York City is first).

For truly world-class climbing, make the 2.5 hour trek out to Joshua Tree National Park or Tahquitz & Suicide Rocks.

Holcomb Valley Pinnacles and New Jack City for sport climbing are easily within shooting distance.

For shorter day trips, the San Fernando Valley (to the northwest of the L.A. Basin) and Santa Monica Mountains host an assortment of climbing on primarily soft sandstone and volcanic junk. Echo Cliffs, Stoney Point and Malibu Creek State Park comprise the majority of local "destination" areas. The once popular Williamson Rock is currently closed to climbing. Do NOT attempt to access Williamson Rock during the closure.

Refer to specific areas for directions.