HomeClimbingAlley Cat

Alley Cat at Wonder Wall, El Potrero Chico

Monterrey, Mexico
face climbing
dihedral
chimney moves
runout
bolted sport
limestone
single pitch
Length: 115 ft
Type: Sport
Stars
Pitches
1
Location
Alley Cat
Aspect
South Facing

Overview

"Alley Cat challenges climbers with a blend of technical face moves leading into a gripping dihedral and chimney section. This single-pitch sport climb in El Potrero Chico offers both solid protection and varied terrain for those seeking technical variety and a taste of northern Mexico’s rugged limestone."

Alley Cat at Wonder Wall, El Potrero Chico

Alley Cat offers a dynamic climb that blends technical face moves with a rewarding dihedral and chimney section, set against the dramatic limestone walls of El Potrero Chico. This sport route stretches 115 feet across a single pitch, tempting climbers with its varied challenges and subtle shifts in terrain. The climb opens with face climbing that demands precise footwork, testing your ability to read holds that vary between solid and occasionally loose rock on the right-hand side. As you transition into the dihedral, the movement changes rhythm—here, the rock seems to reach out and engage you, inviting controlled jams and playful chimney maneuvers that break up the steady push of the ascent.

While the lower section sports bolts spaced just wide enough to challenge your confidence, protectable by slinging a nearby tree, the presence of 11 bolts along the route offers security where it counts, making the runouts manageable for seasoned sport climbers. A 70-meter rope is the ideal length; it barely accommodates the climb’s descent, where a midpoint anchor allows for a two-stage lower. This careful setup ensures that despite the route’s somewhat runout nature at the base, retreat remains straightforward and safe.

Set high on the Wonder Wall face, the climb basks in morning sun but transitions into partial shade as the day progresses, making late spring through early fall an excellent season to try it. The limestone here carries the scars of use without sacrificing its grip, and while some holds show signs of weathering, the route demands respect in both gear and movement. Whether you’re stepping onto Alley Cat as a gateway sport climb or peppering your El Potrero adventure with technical variety, you’ll find the route offers a balanced test of skill and endurance amid stunning landscapes.

Approaching the base involves a clear hike from the main road near El Potrero Chico, roughly 20 minutes through a rocky, scrubby trail that edges close to sheer cliff faces. This approach sets the tone—practical and direct, inviting a focused mindset before you reach the bolts. Be prepared with solid footwear and ample water; the arid northern Mexico climate hits hard as the sun climbs.

Alley Cat’s appeal lies in its blend of technical face scrambles and the satisfying shift into cracking and chimney techniques, perfect for climbers honing mixed sport styles. With moderate difficulty framed by reliable protection and a striking setting, it balances approachable challenge with the raw thrill of vertical limestone. The slight looseness on the right face keeps you alert, reminding you this isn’t a climb to take lightly, even if the grade feels accessible. For those seeking to sharpen their leads amid El Potrero’s vast walls, Alley Cat delivers a focused, memorable climb.

Climber Safety

Watch for a few loose holds on the right face near the lower section, and be mindful of the runout that can be mitigated by sling wrapping a tree. The 70m rope just fits for the descent—carry at least this length to avoid complications. The approach trail skirts steep drop-offs and rocky terrain, so proceed carefully.

Route Details

TypeSport
Pitches1
Length115 feet

Local Tips

Start early to avoid intense midday heat on the exposed limestone.

Use reliable shoes with sticky rubber for technical face holds.

Bring enough water—the approach and climb can be dehydrating in the dry northern climate.

Double-check gear placements near the runout and clip bolts carefully on the lower section.

Route Rating

Difficulty
5.9
Quality
Consensus:Rated at 5.9, Alley Cat offers a moderate challenge where movement variety and a short runout add subtle complexity beyond the grade. The route feels approachable for experienced sport climbers but the runout near the bottom requires composure, making the grade feel stiffer during that section compared to more continuously protected climbs in El Potrero Chico.

Gear Requirements

Bring a 70m rope to navigate both the climb and the descent safely. The route is equipped with 11 bolts, but a runout near the bottom can be protected by slinging a nearby tree. A short rope or double lower from the midway anchor simplifies getting off the wall.

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Tags

face climbing
dihedral
chimney moves
runout
bolted sport
limestone
single pitch