5.10c, Sport
Monterrey
Nuevo Leon ,Mexico
"Bazookaed offers a rewarding three-pitch sport climb in El Potrero Chico that escalates from moderate to challenging with a powerful bouldery finish. Perfect for climbers seeking technical moves and endurance in a stunning desert crag."
Bazookaed cuts a striking figure on the rugged cliffs of El Potrero Chico, delivering a sport climb that carefully balances technique and endurance across its three pitches. Located in the heart of Northern Mexico's climbing jewel, this route offers an introductory first pitch graded 5.7 that charts a steady line upward through solid rock, warming muscles and sharpening focus. The second pitch steps up the game with some sustained 5.9 moves that weave through textured walls, providing just the right level of challenge to push confidence without overwhelming.
But it's the final pitch where Bazookaed earns its reputation. This crux, resting on bolted protection yet demanding precision and power, invites climbers to confront a bouldery overhang that tests footwork and endurance. With approximately 14 draws needed — extending lines and careful clipping strategies become a necessity here to avoid rope drag and manage pump effectively. The anchors offer a bittersweet relief: a chance to breathe and shake out after demanding moves that leave fingers burning and lungs tasting the mountain air.
Set within El Potrero Chico, where limestone walls tower above a landscape alive with desert heat and distant, whispering winds, Bazookaed isn’t just a climb; it’s an encounter with the character of this famous Mexican crag. The approach is straightforward, making it accessible for a full day of climbing, and the climb itself is long enough at 250 feet to satisfy those looking for something beyond a short sport pitch. While the first and second pitches gradually escalate in difficulty, the final pitch remains the route’s defining feature, rewarding those who arrive prepared with extended draws and mental focus.
Pragmatically, climbers should prepare for the sustained physical demand and bring plenty of water to combat the dry, warm environment. Timing your climb for early morning or late afternoon helps beat the intense midday sun on the southwest-facing wall and keeps your hands from overheating. Footwear with a snug fit and precision edging capabilities will serve best on the technical sequences, especially near the overhang.
With 20 votes averaging 2.8 stars, the route's reputation suggests it's a solid choice for climbers ready to transition into more serious sport routes, offering a genuine test without stepping into the realm of extreme difficulty. Whether you're acclimating to Mexican limestone or chasing a route that blends accessible pitches with a memorable crux, Bazookaed stands ready to stake a place in your climbing memory.
The overhang on the third pitch demands focused clipping and rope management to prevent excessive drag. Fatigue here can lead to careless clips or falls. Be mindful of loose rock in the bouldery section and maintain strong footwork to stay safe.
Start early to avoid the intense midday sun on the southwest-facing wall.
Bring at least 14 quickdraws for the entire route and slings for extending placements.
Wear shoes with precise edging to handle the technical sequences on pitch three.
Carry ample water; the desert heat can dehydrate you quickly during the ascent.
The third pitch is well bolted but requires about 14 draws due to the rope drag around the bouldery overhang. Extending draws and using slings are essential to stay efficient and save energy on pumpy moves.
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