"P.G.O.A.T. (Meg’s Route) is a focused single-pitch trad climb featuring a welcoming handcrack and wide dihedral. Perfect for climbers looking to refine crack skills while enjoying solid Colorado rock amid the quiet grandeur of The Great Concavity."
P.G.O.A.T. (Meg’s Route) offers a straightforward yet satisfying introduction to the vertical challenges of The Great Concavity, tucked within Colorado’s Palisade sector. This single-pitch trad climb stretches 35 feet, inviting climbers to engage a distinctive handcrack that demands confident stemming and body tension. As you ascend, the route guides you through a wide dihedral, where an generous spread of holds rewards steady movement and careful footwork. The rock here feels solid, and the texture provides ample purchase, though attention remains necessary to maintain balance on the dihedral’s slightly featured walls.
This climb suits those looking to sharpen crack techniques while appreciating the quiet power of the surrounding landscape. The Palisade area is notable for its rugged cliffs and open skies, offering a raw and intimate climbing experience away from crowds. Climbers will find that the protection relies primarily on large hexes, so bringing a rack focused on those sizes ensures both safety and efficiency on the route. The rock quality invites confidence, but the simplicity of the gear placements still commands respect, particularly for climbers honing their rack-building and placement skills.
Approach to P.G.O.A.T. is relatively accessible within the broader Grand Junction region, though the trail navigating to The Great Concavity sweeps through sagebrush-covered slopes and sun-baked stone faces, setting a contemplative mood before the climb. Early morning or late afternoon light drapes the wall, making these times ideal for cooler conditions and softer shadows that highlight cracks and holds.
More than just a physical route, this line offers moments where the rock itself seems to meet you with openness, daring you to commit, adjust, and flow through its natural features. For those preparing this climb, focus on sturdy footwear with solid edging, adequate hydration (especially during warm Colorado days), and a well-practiced hand jam technique. While P.G.O.A.T. doesn’t present technical cruxes in the highest grades, it calls for precise, deliberate movement that can challenge climbers who are newer to crack climbing.
Overall, P.G.O.A.T. provides a welcomed blend of adventure and practicality, pairing manageable difficulty with classic Colorado rock character, inviting ascents that balance exploration and grounded technique. It’s a reliable choice to build confidence or add to a day of varied trad climbs in the region.
Although protection options are solid with large hexes, be cautious of less secure placements around the wider sections of the crack. Verify each placement before committing to moves, and watch footing on the slightly featured dihedral walls to avoid slips.
Start early to avoid afternoon heat and enjoy cleaner holds.
Practice hand jamming and stemming techniques before heading out.
Wear shoes with solid edging for secure foot placements.
Stay well hydrated as the desert environment can dry you out quickly.
Carry a rack packed with large hexes to protect the wide handcrack and dihedral sections properly. Smaller gear is less useful here as the placements favor broader pro.
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