Mountain Project Logo
To save paper & ink, use the [Hide] controls next to photos and comments so you only print what you need.

Comales Tamale

5.10a, Trad, 100 ft (30 m),  Avg: 2.7 from 23 votes
FA: Sean Wood, Patrick Larkin, Jay Foley
New Mexico > Taos Area > Comales Canyon > Lower/Creek Lev… > Water Wall
Warning Access Issue: Seasonal Raptor Nesting DetailsDrop down

Description

Comales Tamale

is the tallest and probably the most aesthetic line on the Water Wall.

Fun moves in a shallow right facing corner as you step right past one roof, then turn a second roof on good hand jams with many features. The steepness eases for a short section before a steep final headwall with 2 bolts, which can be avoided to the left, keeping the route at 5.8. "5.8-climbing topropers" will be happier with a directional piece protecting this variation.

Location

Middle of the Water Wall, pick out the highest anchor visible, with 2 bolts below it leading through the headwall.

Protection

Nuts and cams to 2" to supplement the 2 bolts.
2-bolt anchor with chains at the top.
Use a 60m rope to toprope.

Photos [Hide ALL Photos]

Carlos top roping the Tamale
[Hide Photo] Carlos top roping the Tamale

Comments [Hide ALL Comments]

Craig Childre
Lubbock, TX
 
[Hide Comment] Everyone should attempt the 5.10 section! The moves are easy on great holds and the top out has monster jugg's avoid being too intimidated. Jun 14, 2010
slo ta
ABQ
  5.10a
[Hide Comment] I tried the left 5.8 variation for the sake of my follower. I would highly highly recommend not traversing back to the chains if you do this. The rope drag was impossible to work with. Though I'm also not sure what the anchor situation might be if you instead top out directly... Sep 12, 2021
Dylan Fox
Albuquerque, NM
 
[Hide Comment] The first 5.8 roof/corner section is some of the best 5.8 jug hauling around! Second 5.10 crux is short and pretty well protected by the two bolts. Aug 4, 2024