climbing after the rain

Please help us keep Hueco’s rock and you safe

Climbing at Hueco Tanks after the rain or snow is a no go

Rainfall could be your downfall—don't climb on wet rock.

Hueco Tanks rock is porphyritic syenite which formed over 35 million years ago. The porous rock remains wet after it precipitates and is prone to breakage until it fully dries.

Climbing at Hueco Tanks after the rain or snow is a no go

Wait until the rock fully dries.

Depending on the amount of rain and/or snow, temperatures, cloud cover, etc, dry times may varies between 24 and 72 hours.

After it rains or snows, the integrity of Hueco’s rock is compromised.
Sometimes rain and/or snow is slow to evaporate and moisture remains trapped in the rock.
This moisture makes the rock fragile and prone to breakage.
Classic problems have been lost due to wet rock breakage.
Climbers have been severely injured from falls caused by broken holds.

How to Assess if you should climb after a rain or Snow

It can be challenging to determine if it is safe to climb. However, here are a few questions to consider when making a decision.

How much did it rain or snow in the Park? This can be challenging to know if you are staying in town. Call Hueco headquarters:

(915) 857-1135

to find out or check social media pages

https://www.instagram.com/huecotanksstatepark

How long ago did the precipitation occur?

Is it warm and dry or cold?

Is there snow still on rocks?

Is water draining off of Hueco’s runnels?

What is the humidity level?

Is the ground saturated with moisture?

Is it clear and breezy or is there cloud cover and no wind?

Be a steward and preserve access and climbs for generations to come

Omar's Story

What to do on a Rest Day

On the last day of his trip, Omar was determined to send Echo Chamber. It had rained the day before but he went for it anyway. On the top out, holds broke and he soared over his spotter, missing the crash pads. Omar broke both legs, heels, and shattered his ankles.

Omar had to be airlifted off of West Mountain. Due to the severity of his injuries and lasting complications he will never be able to climb again.

"Twenty years of climbing ended swiftly with the stupidest decision of my life to climb on the last day of my trip, even though it had rained the day before. Don't f#%@ing climb after it rains because the rock become more brittle." -Omar