The Cherokee Way in the Naranjo de Bulnes (Picu Urriellu) is located on the right side of the West Face of the wall. Even if less famous and more difficult, it's similar in style to the Sagitario. Just like this one, it doesn't reach the summit, and only goes up to Tiros de la Torca. The second pitch is a bit explosive, but it's a very nice and appealing route.
The route has been restored a few years ago. Even if the bolts are safe, new ones have been added where there used to be pitons, all the belay stations are set up with rings to rappel down, but their location is uncomfortable and old burils haven't been removed. We must appreciate the effort and work done by those who restored the route. Nevertheless, we have to admit that it's been done in a kind of sloppy way... We need to keep in mind that the routes aren't ours, we can't just add new bolts at our own discretion, and even less so after 25 years. Even if we were the ones opening them.
Cherokee Way in the Naranjo de Bulnes (Picu Urriellu). Route Description:
- We start with an easy first pitch, but in which bolts are getting distant from each other, and that leads us beneath the big overhang.
- The second pitch presents a very explosive section at the beginning, the overall difficulty varies depending on the climber from 6c+ to 7b. If you're struggling here it's going to be difficult to pass in A0, so it might be a good idea to take a hook. After, it gets easier.
- The third pitch and the fourth are similar. Exits are somewhat technical and obligatory, but also well protected. Then, the difficulty drops but the bolts get farther apart. The rock is perfect.
- The fifth pitch is more sustained, very beautiful. Once its unique bolt reached, keep on slightly to the left until getting to a small dihedral.
- From this belay station, it's possible to climb one more transition pitch to the Leiva route, or to rappel down directly.
FACT SHEET
LENGTH
DIFFICULTY
DURATION
EQUIPMENT
DESCENT
FIRST ASCENT