Prime Rib of Goat

Climb Highlights

Experience the uber classic long sport climb on Mazama’s Iconic Prime Rib of Goat Route 5.9-

Located in the heart of the Methow Valley, Prime Rib offers a classic multi-pitch adventure that promises technical challenges, exciting exposure, and incredible views. Whether you're aiming to push your limits on a mid-range sport climb or you're ready to take your multi-pitch climbing skills to the next level, Prime Rib is a perfect route for climbers seeking an unforgettable alpine experience.

Climb Overview

• Route Finding: Improve your route selection and navigation skills on alpine routes, learning how to plan out your climb, read the rock, and approach new routes with confidence.

• Technical Skills: Improve your rock climbing technique, from managing your gear to using proper handholds, footholds, and body movement on vertical terrain. Learn how to move smoothly and fluidly on longer, multi-pitch routes.

• Anchor Building: Learn from your guide about the art of building strong, reliable anchors in a variety of settings.

• Rope Management: Learn how to manage your rope efficiently across multiple pitches, improve belay transitions, clean gear, and conduct multiple rappels efficiently.

• Epic Exposure: Experience exhilarating vertical movement and awe-inspiring panoramas as you climb one of Mazama's most renowned routes.

• Challenging Yet Accessible: With a grade of 5.9, Prime Rib provides an excellent challenge for climbers looking for moderate movement but want to take on a longer, more exposed route. With eleven exciting pitches ranging from 5.4 to 5.9, this route offers easier climbing intermixed with challenging cruxes to give climbers of any ability a rewarding experience. 

• Well-Protected Climbing: Enjoy a variety of moves on solid granite with well-placed protection, offering both a thrilling and secure adventure.

• Alpine Adventure with Minimal Approach: A short approach leads you to this alpine gem, combining the thrill of a full-day, 11-pitch climb with an accessible trailhead.

Best For

• Intermediate Climbers: Ready to tackle a multi-pitch sport climb with exposure and commitment. The 5.9 cruxes will challenge you, but with our guides’ support, you’ll gain confidence on this stunning route.

• Advanced Climbers: Push your skills with the technical systems required for a route of this caliber, focusing on efficiency, strategy, and rope management on multi-pitch routes.

• Climbers Looking to Build Multi-Pitch Skills: If you want to refine your multi-pitch techniques in a stunning alpine setting, Prime Rib is the ideal route for making the transition from single-pitch to multi-pitch climbing.

Itinerary

This schedule can be adapted for multi-day or single-day trips, depending on your availability.

• Day 1: Meet your guide for an introduction to the Prime Rib route. After a gear check, spend the day honing your skills on shorter routes around Mazama. This is the perfect opportunity to warm up with single-pitch sport routes at local crags while refining belay transitions, gear placement, and movement.

• Day 2: Focus on technical skills, including anchor building, rope management, and rappelling techniques. These skills will be crucial for your success on Prime Rib. You’ll also begin practicing efficient multi-pitch transitions as you tackle shorter, multi-pitch routes in Mazama.

• Day 3: Climb Prime Rib! You’ll apply everything you’ve learned as you ascend this 5.9, 11-pitch route. Your guide will offer real-time coaching, tips for efficient climbing techniques, and feedback for your goals. At the summit, soak in breathtaking views of the Methow Valley and surrounding mountains. Finish the day with a debrief and discussion about your climb, and a celebratory snack at the famous Mazama Store!

Register Now

Don’t miss the chance to enhance your climbing skills with this incredible, iconic multi-pitch climb! Secure your spot today to explore the stunning rock climbing that the Methow Valley has to offer.

Frequently Asked Questions

How hard is Prime Rib of Goat in Mazama?

Prime Rib of Goat is a classic 1,300' tall 11-pitch rock climb in Mazama with climbing up to 5.9-. It is best for climbers who are comfortable on moderate rock, want a full-value alpine-style day with sport climbing gear & clothing, and are ready for one of the U.S. best long moderate sport climbs.

Do I need multi-pitch experience to climb Prime Rib of Goat?

Previous multi-pitch experience is helpful, but your guide can adapt the day or build a multi-day progression around your goals. Climbers should be comfortable with outdoor rock movement up to 5.9, ability to lead belay, and be prepared for a long route with multiple belays and rappels.

What is included in a guided Prime Rib of Goat climb?

The climb includes professional guiding, route planning, a gear check, coaching on movement and multi-pitch efficiency, rope management, belay transitions, multi-pitch rappelling strategy, and decision-making feedback throughout the route.

What should I bring for Prime Rib of Goat?

Bring climbing shoes, harness, helmet, approach shoes, weather-appropriate layers- such as a sun hoody and wind breaker, water, food, sun protection, and a small pack for a long climbing day. Your guide will confirm the final technical gear before the trip.

Cancellation

It is your responsibility to be familiar with our Payment, Cancellation, and Rescheduling Policies. When you book a trip with Guided Exposure, you are agreeing to our policies outlined here:

guidedexposure.com/pages/cancellation-policy