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Tamirindo: A Low-Angle Trad Gully at La Selva, El Potrero Chico

Nuevo Leon, Mexico
low-angle
trad
single-pitch
rappel anchors
shaded
forest
beginner-friendly
gully
Length: 80 ft
Type: Trad
Stars
Pitches
1
Location
Tamirindo
Aspect
South Facing

Overview

"Tamirindo is a single-pitch trad route carved into La Selva’s Jungle Wall, offering climbers a mellow, low-angle gully climb shaded by dense foliage. Ideal for those seeking a relaxed trad outing with straightforward protection and a secure rappel descent."

Tamirindo: A Low-Angle Trad Gully at La Selva, El Potrero Chico

Tamirindo offers a straightforward trad climbing experience carved into the rugged limestone of La Selva’s Jungle Wall in El Potrero Chico. This single-pitch route, stretching about 80 feet, invites climbers into a quiet, shaded gully just left of the iconic first pitch of "Las Chimuelas." While the terrain is low-angled and less technical, it carries its own rhythm — a steady upward swim with reliable pockets for gear and occasional natural rests where the wall pulls away gently. The rock, etched with dry pockets and small edges, demands attentive footwork rather than powerful moves, making it accessible for climbers looking to warm up or enjoy a relaxed trad climb framed by dense forest overhead.

Approaching Tamirindo means stepping into a jungle environment where the humid air carries the sounds of distant birds and rustling leaves, lending a calm backdrop to the climb. The shaded gully provides shelter from the midday heat, but be prepared for warm, sticky conditions especially in summer. The rappel anchors at the top are bolted securely, making descent straightforward after a mindful climb. While the route doesn’t push grades or technical difficulty, it is an excellent introduction to trad lines in El Potrero Chico, especially for those familiar with the approach or coming off the busier classic faces.

Protection demands standard trad gear with mid-sized cams and nuts fitting the moderate cracks and pockets. Climbers should be ready for placements that require careful judgment, as gear can feel a bit sparse in sections. The area’s limestone is generally solid, but small flakes near the gully bottom mean caution and good pro placements help enhance safety.

The approach to Tamirindo from El Potrero Chico’s base involves a short trek uphill through thick vegetation that can be slippery when wet; proper footwear with traction is a must. Expect about 15 minutes from the main road parking to the base of the climb. Given the single pitch and moderate rating (5.2), Tamirindo fits well as an early day warm-up or a gentle trad introduction for climbers visiting the jungle wall sector.

In the seasonally humid climate of Northern Mexico, timing your climb earlier in the day avoids peak heat and potential afternoon showers. The route’s position facing slightly east means it catches morning light before falling into shade as the sun climbs higher, lending coolness during dawn window hours. The descent is a simple rap from bolted anchors above, requiring a 60-meter rope to reach the ground without mandatory stops.

Though Tamirindo doesn’t showcase the stern challenges found elsewhere at El Potrero Chico, it offers a quiet, accessible experience where the jungle’s presence feels alive around every move. For climbers seeking a no-fuss trad line in a stunning natural arena, Tamirindo delivers a measured dose of granite’s call with practical approach, secure descent, and a chance to engage with the forest’s quiet pulse while working gear and rhythm amidst moderate, forgiving terrain.

Climber Safety

While the limestone holds well overall, some loose flakes at the base and occasional small rock instability warrant cautious protection placements. The humid jungle environment means the approach can be slick, so steady footing and careful rappelling from the bolted anchors are essential.

Route Details

TypeTrad
Pitches1
Length80 feet

Local Tips

Start early to avoid afternoon heat and humidity in the jungle.

Wear shoes with good traction for the slippery approach trail.

Carry a 60-meter rope for a single rappel from bolted anchors.

Check weather forecasts—afternoon rain can make the gully slick.

Route Rating

Difficulty
5.2
Quality
Consensus:Rated 5.2, Tamirindo presents an approachable trad climb that feels appropriately graded for beginners or those warming up. The pitch lacks crux moves but requires steady footwork and solid gear placement skills. It might feel soft compared to nearby technical routes, yet the gully’s narrow geometry adds a subtle challenge in gear judgment. This makes it a reliable introduction before stepping up to steeper, more demanding climbs in El Potrero Chico.

Gear Requirements

Standard trad gear required, with mid-sized cams and nuts suited for moderate cracks and pockets. Bolted rappel anchors secure the descent.

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Tags

low-angle
trad
single-pitch
rappel anchors
shaded
forest
beginner-friendly
gully