Nodes in Cerro de la Muerte

Introduction

The name for this ominous peak was derived from historical incidences of travellers attempting to go over the mountain on foot and being improperly prepared for the cold, rainy conditions and often paying the ultimate price. Today the mountain is easily accessible by car, and acts as a major artery of the Interamericana connecting north and south Costa Rica.

In view of the climber, Cerro de la Muerte is better known for its rather precariously located boulder field, and subsequently vast amount of high quality bouldering, Cerro de la Muerte also hosts a modest three roped climbs. Although most come here for the bouldering, there is potential to bolt more climbs on some of the higher boulders.

The wall

All three climbs are on a single massive boulder formation approximately 20 meters high. The wall is nearly vertical and provides balanced climbing.

The Rock

The massive boulders at the top of the mountain are dark in colour and are very rough on hand and finger skin. Expect a lot of crimps and friction dependant holds on large rounded rocks. For the most part rock quality is good. Some cleaning may be need, and some crimps may flake off it they are hollow, however it is nothing to be deterred about.

Difficulty

Three easier routes ranging from 5.8 to harder 5.10, with potential for many more.

Eating

The closest location for some eats is at the Cafetería Los Chespiritos #1, which hosts a wide and fine variety of Tico roadside cuisine, from fresh blackberries to fried plantain. There are other restaurants and sodas along the highway in the direction of Cartago. Please do not leave any food wrappers or waste at the top of the mountain.

The Weather

Being on the very top of the mountain, the weather at Cerro de la Muerte is hardly every bright and sunny, and never balmy. Expect some cloud cover, cooler temperatures and chance of light precipitation as weather patterns constantly change around the mountain summit. Pack warm clothes, and bring a camera. If the clouds part, the views are impeccable, especially around sunrise and sunset.

Things to Remember

Costa Rica, more often than not, is an adventure to climb. Between trekking through jungles, fending off insects, and crossing paths with tropical animals you are sure to have a great day out. Here are a few things to keep in mind when climbing in Costa Rica:

• Bring extra water. With hot and humid often in the forecast you will drink more water than you may expect.
• Pack a brush; steel is best. Many climbs can become dirty after the rainy season and if you are climbing something that is friction dependent, you may need to do some spring-cleaning.
• It gets dark early and fast. This is especially true if you are in a ravine. Pack a headlamp or plan to get out early so that you do not get stuck in the dark.
• Bring a Spanish-English dictionary, if necessary. You never know when a couple words of Spanish will get you out of a jam.

Respect the land owners.

They are kind enough to let you use their property for your enjoyment.

Respect other climbers.

Climbing is a community sport where the only opponent is the cruel crux that sends you airborne.

Respect the environment.

Above all, respect the environment. The plants, the earth and the rock itself were here long before you came into existence and will continue to exist long after you are gone. Sustain its survival by treating it properly.

• Pick up trash, even if it is not your own. Take at least one piece out on every trip.

• Do not kill flora or fauna, no matter how small or large.

• Live and climb as though you are organic with your environment.

Respect the land owners.

They are kind enough to let you use their property for your enjoyment.

Respect other climbers.

Climbing is a community sport where the only opponent is the cruel crux that sends you airborne.

Respect the environment.

Above all, respect the environment. The plants, the earth and the rock itself were here long before you came into existence and will continue to exist long after you are gone. Sustain its survival by treating it properly.

• Pick up trash, even if it is not your own. Take at least one piece out on every trip.

• Do not kill flora or fauna, no matter how small or large.

• Live and climb as though you are organic with your environment.

Respect the land owners.

They are kind enough to let you use their property for your enjoyment.

Respect other climbers.

Climbing is a community sport where the only opponent is the cruel crux that sends you airborne.

Respect the environment.

Above all, respect the environment. The plants, the earth and the rock itself were here long before you came into existence and will continue to exist long after you are gone. Sustain its survival by treating it properly.

• Pick up trash, even if it is not your own. Take at least one piece out on every trip.

• Do not kill flora or fauna, no matter how small or large.

• Live and climb as though you are organic with your environment.