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Monkey Face: Dynamic Sport Climbing on Puerto Rico’s Edge

Bayamón, Puerto Rico Puerto Rico
overhang
roof
technical slab
crimpy
sport climb
single pitch
limestone
Puerto Rico
Length: 50 ft
Type: Sport
Stars
Pitches
1
Location
Monkey Face
Aspect
South Facing

Overview

"Monkey Face challenges climbers with a compelling mix of overhang, roof, and technical slab, all packed into a single 50-foot pitch. This sport climb on Puerto Rico’s limestone cliff offers a testing yet accessible route for those ready to finesse crimps and power through varied terrain."

Monkey Face: Dynamic Sport Climbing on Puerto Rico’s Edge

Perched along the rugged limestone cliffs of Nuevo Bayamón, Monkey Face presents a compact yet demanding sport climb where varied terrain tests both finesse and power. This single-pitch route, stretching 50 feet high, seamlessly blends a challenging overhang with a tight roof section and finishes on a sharp, technical slab that requires precise footwork and finger strength. As you ascend, the smell of sun-warmed rock mingles with distant ocean breezes, while the cliff’s verticality frames glimpses of Puerto Rico’s lush greenery and coastal horizons. Seven well-placed bolts lead you safely past tricky transitions, yet the route rewards climbers who can fluidly adapt—from crimping on small holds to navigating sustained tension on the slab. Expect an intense but brief encounter where every move counts. Ideal for climbers comfortable at 5.10d looking to sharpen their sport climbing skills in a setting that combines tropical warmth with the raw challenge of sharply etched limestone. Before you climb, plan for early starts to avoid midday heat, bring ample hydration, and wear sturdy shoes with sticky rubber to maximize traction. Approaching Monkey Face involves a short but uneven trail through dense foliage, adding a sense of wilderness to the experience. The route’s distinct sections push climbers to engage both strength and technique, creating a focused session that leaves you eager for the next ascent. Whether you’re honing your technique or chasing a spirited send on Caribbean rock, Monkey Face stands out as a compact gem demanding respect and readiness.

Climber Safety

Though bolted throughout, the route’s overhung positions make falls more dynamic; ensure solid clipping technique and maintain focus to avoid rope drag. The coastal environment encourages careful scrutiny of bolt condition, especially during or after the rainy season.

Route Details

TypeSport
Pitches1
Length50 feet

Local Tips

Start climbs early to avoid the intense midday sun on the limestone.

Wear shoes with sticky rubber for precision on crimps and slab moves.

Bring plenty of water; the approach trail offers little shade.

Double-check bolt integrity before climbing as the coastal climate can affect fixed gear.

Route Rating

Difficulty
5.10d
Quality
Consensus:The 5.10d rating reflects a stiff challenge where overhang strength and slab technique intersect. While the grade feels fair overall, the sequence through the roof and into the slab creates a decisive crux that bumps the difficulty slightly above a straightforward 10d. Climbers familiar with sustained sport climbs at this level will find the transitions on Monkey Face engaging and rewarding.

Gear Requirements

Equipped with seven bolts leading to a solid anchor, Monkey Face requires sport climbing gear including quickdraws and a standard rack. The protection is reliable, with placements designed to keep the route safe but demanding precise clipping through overhang and roof sections.

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Tags

overhang
roof
technical slab
crimpy
sport climb
single pitch
limestone
Puerto Rico