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Facelift: A Sharp Ascent Above The Pit in Aguadilla

Aguadilla, Puerto Rico Puerto Rico
slab
arete
bolt protected
single pitch
coastal views
technical footwork
Length: 70 ft
Type: Sport
Stars
Pitches
1
Location
Facelift
Aspect
South Facing

Overview

"Facelift offers a crisp 70-foot slab climb perched over The Pit’s sandy basin in Aguadilla. Its delicate arete start and smooth slab demand precise footwork amid breezy coastal views, perfect for those craving focused technique in an accessible, scenic setting."

Facelift: A Sharp Ascent Above The Pit in Aguadilla

At the edge of Aguadilla’s Surfers and Survival Beaches lies Facelift, a 70-foot single-pitch sport climb that tests your precision on a slate-thin slab. The route begins on a striking arete, where the rock leans forward just enough to challenge balance and footwork without overwhelming the climber. Each move demands a steady foot placement—the kind that rewards patience and focus rather than brute force. As you ascend, the slab’s texture shifts under your fingers from smooth to subtly dimpled, offering just enough friction to stick confident smears and delicate edging.

The setting compounds the experience. The Pit’s sandy basin sits below like an arena, its shifting sands ready to cradle your rappel or catch a fall if the tide and wind cooperate. The salty ocean breeze filters through the nearby palms and hints at the beaches just beyond the cliffs, where waves crash with an insistent rhythm. This climb strikes a satisfying balance: it’s approachable for climbers honing their slab technique but demands enough finesse to keep more experienced climbers engaged.

Protection on Facelift is straightforward, relying on well-placed bolts that follow the line cleanly. The anchors at the top are stable and spacious, providing a reassuring spot for top belays or for staging a smooth lowering into The Pit when conditions are right. This route shines in dry weather—rain or high humidity make the slab slick and treacherous. Given the tropical location, morning ascents are ideal before afternoon heat and possible showers set in.

Getting here involves a short walk from the nearby parking area to The Pit’s rim. The approach offers glimpses of rolling coastal scrub and vibrant birdlife, grounding you in the natural pulse surrounding the climb. While the climb itself is brief, it offers a focused slice of Puerto Rico’s striking coastal climbing, making it a must for any visiting climber looking to blend sea views with technical slab challenges.

Climber Safety

Watch for slick patches after rain or heavy humidity—slab friction reduces significantly and can cause slips with little warning. Also, confirm the sand level in The Pit if you intend to lower in; minimal sand increases risk on descent.

Route Details

TypeSport
Pitches1
Length70 feet

Local Tips

Best climbed in the morning to avoid afternoon heat and chance of rain.

Ensure your shoes have excellent edging capability for the thin slab sections.

Check that the sand in The Pit below has shifted inward if you plan to lower into it safely.

Avoid climbing soon after rain; the slab can remain slick for hours.

Route Rating

Difficulty
5.10c
Quality
Consensus:At 5.10c, Facelift provides a solid challenge for climbers refining slab technique. The grade feels true to its difficulty, with the main test coming from delicate foot placements and balance rather than raw power. Climbers used to vertical sport routes will appreciate the shift to subtle footwork, comparable to nearby slab climbs but with the added complexity of an exposed arete start.

Gear Requirements

Facelift is protected by solid bolts placed along the arete and slab. Bring a standard sport rack with quickdraws; anchor bolts at the top make for a secure top belay or lowering station. The rock’s smooth slab requires precise clipping to avoid swing risks.

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Tags

slab
arete
bolt protected
single pitch
coastal views
technical footwork