Just Southwest of Penitente Canyon lies Witches Canyon, named for a rock outcropping that looks like a giant eye. The cliffs tend to be short, but excellent routes abound. A few routes sit near the mouth of the canyon, but most are located just beyond the end of the road.
Getting There
Credit to Bob D'Antonio's guide to the San Luis Valley, 1994.
At the Penitente turnoff, zero you odometer and head South on the main road. At 0.6+ miles look for a road heading due West with a sign marked Witche's Canyon. Like the other areas down there...hard to miss now-a-days.
Razor Hueco Arete is a great looking line if you like jugs. Slightly overhanging at the start, then it straightens up. The line does not go directly up the arete, but some outside holds are used. Great protection and wonderful for climbers wanting to break the 5.9 barrier into 5.10....[more]
You won't like this area...you have to walk a little to get to some routes. Less traffic so your fingers will get torn up. West facing so really hot in the sun. Stay in Penitente! I'll be in Witches.
It may have been due to extenuating circumstances but I doubt it; we got spanked over here. It's worth the trip over though just to see it and check out some really serious routes. Be on your game or beware...
Witches Canyon
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