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Scavenger at El Fin de Semana, El Potrero Chico

El Potrero Chico, Nuevo Leon Mexico
sport
positive holds
runouts
dihedral
single pitch
limestone
sun exposure
Length: 90 ft
Type: Sport
Stars
Pitches
1
Location
Scavenger
Aspect
South Facing

Overview

"Scavenger delivers a focused 90-foot single pitch that tests sport climbing skills with sustained bolts and technical dihedral moves. Recently re-equipped with solid hardware, this route offers a confident climb under El Potrero Chico’s intense sun and rugged limestone walls."

Scavenger at El Fin de Semana, El Potrero Chico

Scavenger offers climbers a direct, focused test of sport climbing skills on the sun-drenched walls of El Fin de Semana, part of the famed El Potrero Chico area. This single-pitch route stretches 90 feet straight up, starting with a series of bolts that challenge both your technique and composure. After gaining initial ground, the climb shifts right, following a distinctive dihedral that invites a mix of balanced moves and precise footwork. The upper section introduces a few short runouts on firm, positive holds, rewarding confident climbers with a playful edge that demands attention without overwhelming risk.

The route’s protection is fully renewed as of late 2017, replacing the outdated rusty angle iron bolts with dependable new anchors that boost your peace of mind. This physical update transforms Scavenger into a safer and more inviting climb. The rock itself carries the dry grit and texture typical of northern Mexico’s limestone, gripping subtly beneath fingers and toes while offering enough friction to trust your steps. Expect the heat to press you—morning or late afternoon ascents are recommended to avoid the pitiless midday sun bearing down on the wall.

Locating the climb is straightforward for anyone who’s trod El Potrero Chico’s well-trodden access paths. A modest approach from the base of El Fin de Semana leads directly to the bolts, through terrain marked by clean dirt trails and scattered scrub typical of the region. Climbers should prepare for the dry heat with ample water and lightweight, breathable clothing. Footwear with good edging capability pays off here, particularly as the route transitions from vertical bolts to the technical dihedral.

Scavenger rewards those who come ready with solid sport climbing skills and a measured mindset. While the runouts are few and mild, they add an element of exposure that keeps the adrenaline at a steady simmer rather than a boil. For climbers looking to test lines at the 5.10d level without committing to lengthy multi-pitch routes, Scavenger offers a well-balanced mix of challenge and enjoyment. It also fits well within a day’s varied climbing itinerary in El Potrero Chico, where styles and difficulties abound just within reach.

In summary, climbing Scavenger is a clear invitation: challenge yourself in a beautiful, sunlit canyon known for its rugged limestone walls and vibrant climbing culture. Solid bolts, varied movement, and a compact vertical thrust make this route a practical pick for both personal projects and honing sport climbing technique amid northern Mexico’s striking landscape.

Climber Safety

Although the bolts have been replaced with reliable anchors, the upper runouts on positive holds demand focus and careful clip management to avoid falls. Climbers should also watch for the potential heat stress given the wall’s full sun exposure during midday hours.

Route Details

TypeSport
Pitches1
Length90 feet

Local Tips

Start early or late afternoon to avoid the intense midday sun on the wall.

Bring plenty of water and wear breathable clothing for the dry heat.

Use climbing shoes with precise edging to handle the technical footwork in the dihedral.

Check your quickdraws; the bolts are new but stay attentive on the runout sections.

Route Rating

Difficulty
5.10d
Quality
Consensus:The 5.10d grade here feels true to the challenges presented: firm and sustained moves give way to a handful of small but meaningful runouts in the upper section, raising the mental game without pushing beyond intermediate difficulty. Scavenger does not hold back but remains accessible for confident sport climbers, aligning well with nearby 5.10 routes that blend technical detail with modest risk.

Gear Requirements

The route is protected by 8 solid bolts, upgraded from older rusty angle iron bolts in December 2017, offering secure clipping points throughout the climb.

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Tags

sport
positive holds
runouts
dihedral
single pitch
limestone
sun exposure