Voodoo Child

A classic Sandia testpiece. Historically it has been given a 5.12a rating, but it is likely .11d.

1. Two options. The original start climbs the left side of a pillar (5.8) to the arete just left of Estrellada (a.k.a. Mountain Momma). The other option is to start on MM, but after clipping the 2nd bolt step left to a thin crack (5.10) and climb the right side of the pillar. This variation has better climbing, but the start of the crack is somewhat runout. Belay on top of the pillar at a two-bolt anchor.

2. Clip a bolt and crank hard face moves (.11d) to another bolt. Work right to the arete, clip a pin, and rest at a stance below a thin, shallow corner. Lieback the desperate right-facing dihedral (5.11d) to a small roof. Micro cams/nuts for pro, go for it, they will hold falls. Undercling left, then work back right to the arete (beware of rope drag). To avoid rope drag, take a direct line to the arete which adds additional top-notch, adequately protected 5.11 climbing. Follow an easy crack to the awesome belay ledge that is the top of the 2nd pitch of MM.

3. A spectacular pitch. Originally rated 5.12a, the climbing is actually not that hard, but it is airy and physical for a full value experience. Charge up and slightly left from the belay, then work right into a left-facing corner. Power up the exposed, overhanging dihedral (5.11b/c) to a thin crack. Fire the excellent, right-facing corner above to a ledge with a two-bolt anchor. Outstanding!

From here, climb the 4th pitch of Mountain Momma, and finish on it.