Amber McDaniel
Photo Date: 
11/15/2017
On the walk through the colorful and chicken-filled streets of Chicuá, a refreshingly simple look at traditional Guatemalan life is juxtaposed against the hustle and bustle of the city.
Amber McDaniel
Photo Date: 
11/15/2017
As you enter the maze of religious alters, many of the rocks will bear painted prayers and memorials. This one reads, “Bienvenido el lugar santos," or "Welcome to the holy place."
Amber McDaniel
Photo Date: 
11/15/2017
High above loom the incredibly sharp crags of Cerro Quemado, rugged and desolate.
Amber McDaniel
Photo Date: 
11/15/2017
Just to the right of La Ola, you’ll find a chasm with a knotted rope hanging down. Use this to help in your ascent to the summit.
Amber McDaniel
Photo Date: 
11/15/2017
While Cerro Quemado is often shrouded in fog that blocks the view of the valley below, the memorial-filled summit is a breathtaking place, especially in the fiery glow of sunset.
Amber McDaniel
Photo Date: 
11/15/2017
Amber McDaniel (adventure contributor) overlooking the stunning valley below with Canton Chicuá, nearest to the bottom, and the sprawling city of Xela in the distance.
Amber McDaniel
Photo Date: 
11/15/2017
There is no “right path” up and down the mountains, but some are definitely easier than others.
Amber McDaniel
Photo Date: 
11/15/2017
Many of the sport climbing routes at least bear names and grades painted at the base so as to help you identify which is which.
Amber McDaniel
Photo Date: 
11/15/2017
Looking up at Cerro Quemado, these are some of the main walls of the crag. Others are tucked away in the chasms in between.
Amber McDaniel
Photo Date: 
11/15/2017
The stunning copper wall, “La Chocolatada." If you climb any wall there, put this one on the top of your list.
Amber McDaniel
Photo Date: 
11/15/2017
The directional arrows painted on the rocks identifying the easiest way to the crag are sort of (and by that I mean not really) helpful.
Amber McDaniel
Photo Date: 
11/15/2017
Local women stop their daily worship to watch climbers take on a route.
Amber McDaniel
Photo Date: 
11/15/2017
There is something wonderfully primitive about Cerro Quemado: the harsh rock, the jagged skyline, and the jungle-like approach.
Amber McDaniel
Photo Date: 
11/15/2017
Among the boulder-filled approach, you’ll find many crude roofed alters and floral sacraments. This photo was taken near Dia de Los Santos, where the religious activity was even higher than normal.
Amber McDaniel
Photo Date: 
11/15/2017
From above, you see how small Canton Chicuá really is.