Rock Climbing The Egg

Once you've seen The Egg, you'll understand where it gets its name. This giant, egg shaped boulder near Stinson Beach provides about a dozen routes ranging from 5.6-5.12c. There is no trad climbing, only top rope and sport.

You'll find all the easier slab routes on the eastern face. These are perfect for beginners - gradual incline, short routes, easily top roped and almost always in the shade. To the north are a few long, pumpy climbs with challenging starts and some big moves. Bring some longer slings to build anchors with - there are limited bolts all around the top so for some you need to use slings to bring the anchor above the route. This book has everything you need to know about the routes at The Egg and all over the Bay Area.

To get to the Egg, head north on Highway 1 in Marin County. One mile after passing Steep Ravine Environmental Campground, pull into the first dirt lot on the driver's left. There is a trail that leads down to the Egg at the north end of the small lot. There is also a trail leading past the Egg and on to a beautiful, secluded beach. Pack some beers and snacks and hit the beach after a day of climbing. Pretty unbeatable.