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Elevation: 1,000 ft 305 m
GPS: 34.1432, -118.1835
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Shared By: Tristan Burnham on Oct 21, 2009 · Updates
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Description Suggest change

Eagle Rock is a large conglomerate dome located in the San Rafael Hills of Northeast Los Angeles, between Glendale and Pasadena, California. The dome currently hosts thirteen traditionally bolted routes and a bouldering traverse. 

Eagle Rock is situated on a hillside adjacent to the very small Richard Alatorre Park. The west face of the dome is 120 ft tall and composed of chossy conglomerate featuring protruding cobbles and friable holds, and the occasional pocket. All holds should be considered suspect.

 Eagle Rock is a Historical Landmark and while climbing is permissible the fences at the north and south ends with No Trespassing signs indicate the activity is marginally tolerated, by local residents, so keep a low profile and be courteous. 

Eagle Rock derived its name as the rock casts a shadow resembling an eagle with outstretched wings. Prior to the arrival of english speakers in the 1880's the dome was referred to as Piedra Gorda (Fat Rock). Originally part of the Rancho San Rafael owned by the Verdugo family, the land was later dispersed and the area became the site of the Gates Strawberry Ranch.  The area below the dome is popular as a homeless encampment. Eagle Rock was frequented by the infamous Hillside Stranglers in 1977-78 and later, Richard Ramirez, the Night Stalker. The belay stations at the foot of the rock are relatively flat and comprised of soft dirt and leaves. Massive Oak trees near the dome provide shade during the afternoon and evening.

While many have speculated on the origins of climbing at Eagle Rock the Angeles Chapter Rock Climbing Section (RCS) historian has shared that climbing originated at Eagle Rock on November 5, 1933 with Glen Dawson and Dick Jones of the RCS Junior Section. The RCS senior section made their first outing on November 3, 1934 lead by Howard Koster. The RCS hosted 54 outings at Eagle Rock from 1933 through April of 1945. Issues of the RCS Mugelnoos indicate Eagle Rock was utilized for climbing instruction during these twelve years. Many local crags were discovered and climbed at this time; Bee Rock (1934), Sumac Cliff (1935), Tahquitz Rock (1935), Strawberry Peak (1936), Devil's Gate (1936), Pacifico Mtn.(1940), Williamson Rock (1946) and Suicide Rock (1955).

Getting There Suggest change

From the 134 Freeway eastbound, exit Figueroa and cloverleaf to the right. From the stop drive north 200 yds and under the freeway to parking adjacent to Richard Alatorre Park.

Approach- 1 min walk to base from the car. Walk to the east around a low fence and up the hill to the base of the dome.

Elevation: 568 ft.   Latitude: 34.139  Longitude: -118.214

14 Total Climbs

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Classic Climbing Routes at Eagle Rock

Mountain Project's determination of the classic, most popular, highest rated climbing routes in this area.
5.7 5a 15 V+ 13 MVS 4b
 20
Desperate Times
Sport 3 pitches
5.7 5a 15 V+ 13 MVS 4b
 7
Gummy Bear
Sport
5.8 5b 16 VI- 15 HVS 4c
 7
Borderline
Sport
5.9+ 5c 17 VI 17 E1 5a
 6
Where Eagles Dare
Sport
Route Name Location Star Rating Difficulty Date
Desperate Times
 20
5.7 5a 15 V+ 13 MVS 4b Sport 3 pitches
Gummy Bear
 7
5.7 5a 15 V+ 13 MVS 4b Sport
Borderline
 7
5.8 5b 16 VI- 15 HVS 4c Sport
Where Eagles Dare
 6
5.9+ 5c 17 VI 17 E1 5a Sport
More Classic Climbs in Eagle Rock »

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