So after a slow summer of climbing last year, I have finally “laced” up my climbing shoes five times already and have had some great outings so far this spring. Hopefully, I’m on the right road to redemption. I’ve been climbing at Exit 38 in Seattle, and in both Paradise and Gallatin Valleys so far this year. The rock has been excellent and for the most part I’ve shaken off the old rust. My most recent adventure was the classic route in the Gallatin Valley called “Spare Rib.” I eyed this a few summers ago when I was climbing the Standard Route up Gallatin tower. It’s a wonderfully prominent and fairly exposed two pitch 5.8 that’s about a 45 minute walk from the car. It took us two trips to actually climb it in its entirety, as we got blown off the first time by some 50mph winds. It is a super route that eats gear, and it has a little of everything to keep you entertained. If you are in the area and looking for something to climb look no further than Spare Rib. You can find out everything you need to know in the Montana Climbing Guide.
If you are interested I gathered a few of the best photos from the friends I was with and put them up in our gallery for your viewing pleasure. You can check them out here: Spare Rib