"Black Widow tests your skills across three demanding pitches on Cerro Las Tetas, offering solid bolted protection and varied climbing on steep limestone. With technical sequences, comfortable ledges, and scenic views, it’s a must for sport climbers exploring Puerto Rico's vertical terrain."
Black Widow offers an engaging three-pitch sport climb on the rugged cliffs of Cerro Las Tetas near Cayey, Puerto Rico. This route commands your attention with steep, sustained climbing across 250 feet of vertical limestone, where every pitch challenges your technique and focus. The first pitch starts at a solid 5.10a, featuring eight bolts spaced to encourage precise clipping and smooth movement. As you push upward, the rock’s texture shifts beneath your fingertips, with pockets and edges that demand a steady hand and balanced footwork. When you reach the chains, you can set up for a top rope or prepare for the lead on the next pitch.
The second pitch intensifies the experience with a lengthier section climbing at 5.10d across 95 feet and 15 bolts, where route-finding sharpens your awareness. The rock here grips the daylight, offering a perfect mix of crimps and slopers that require commitment and careful breathing. A generous belay ledge awaits at the top, a welcome respite offering room to regroup and enjoy views of the lush Puerto Rican landscape below, with tropical green spreading out towards the horizon.
The final pitch eases back to a well-protected 5.9 climb, shorter at 55 feet with eight bolts. For smoother transitions, it’s recommended to lower your partner down to the belay ledge, which avoids an awkward hanging belay and lets you focus on movement rather than rigging. Throughout the climb, the protection consists exclusively of bolts and chains, providing reliable security but requiring confidence in clipping and body positioning.
Located in the spectacular and somewhat remote Cerro Las Tetas, the route basks in a tropical climate where quick thunderstorms can roll in—timing your climb for the morning or late afternoon maximizes shade and stable conditions. Approach trails wind through dense forest before opening up to the cliff’s base, giving you a moment to acclimate as birds call overhead and the slight breeze cools your skin under the sun.
For climbers seeking intense sport routes with solid gear in a striking natural setting, Black Widow delivers. Preparation is key: bring enough water to handle the heat, wear shoes suited for technical edges, and carry a light rack to clip confidently. This climb offers a slice of Puerto Rico’s less-visited vertical landscapes, rewarding those ready to engage with its challenges and beauty.
The bolts are reliable, but some placements come with runouts that call for careful clipping and controlled movement. The approach is forested and uneven, so watch your footing early and be prepared for wet conditions if rain is nearby. The hanging belay on pitch 3 can be avoided if lowering the second climber carefully.
Start early to avoid tropical afternoon heat and sudden showers.
Use shoes with precise edging for the limestone pockets and crimps.
Lower your second climber to the ledge on pitch 3 to avoid a hanging belay.
Carry sufficient water and sun protection; shade can be limited on the wall.
The route is secured entirely by bolts and chains. Bring quickdraws for clipping on pitches 1 through 3. Expect well-spaced bolts especially on pitch 2, so maintain smooth, efficient movement to conserve energy. Chains mark belays, with two sets at the end of pitch 1 and a belay ledge at pitch 2 offering room to manage the rope comfortably.
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