Hairpin Turn Area Rock Climbing

The Hairpin Turn Area is a popular moderate sport and mixed climbing venue due to easy access both in terms of drive time and approach. Located at almost the same elevation as Tucson and with a variety of aspects one can comfortably climb here three seasons: late fall, winter, and early spring.

Caution should be used as a number of the routes are mixed, meaning traditional gear is required in addition to quickdraws. Since the rock quality is poor, climbers should move with awareness and helmets are recommended for belayers. One should also be cognizant of bee activity. There is a known hive near either the Forehand Wall or the Left Hand Wall and there has been a serious attack.

The breakdown of the area is as follows:

• Forehand Wall: The first wall on the left. Three sport routes, two of which have a second pitch. This wall faces east and receives sun until mid-afternoon.
• Left Hand Wall: The second wall on the left. Sport, mixed, and traditional lines. This wall faces east and receives sun until mid-afternoon.
• Backhand Wall: The third wall on the left. This wall, which is around the corner, boasts eight sport lines. Since this wall is north facing it sees little to no sun.
• Tweener Wall The forth and last wall on the left. There are presently four routes, one of which requires gear. This wall faces south.
• Right Hand wall & Hairpin: The impressive hairpin-like tower and the wall immediately to the right. These routes are less traveled due to the harder grades and longer approach. That said Rosie is likely the area's best line.

Additional nearby climbing options, which all use the same parking pullout:

• Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtle Crag
• Pinhead Wall
• Rivendale
• Hairpin Boulders