The Starters route on Goat Wall offers an engaging four-pitch trad climb that balances approachable challenges with the rugged character of British Columbia’s Kootenays. Located within the Whitewater Rocks area, this climb unfolds across 300 feet of textured slabs, cracks, and corners, each pitch inviting you to engage with the rock’s personality and test your gear placement skills. The climb begins with a “bonus” first pitch—featuring bolts and gear—making it a solid choice when snow cover is clear. Early moves require precise footing on featured slabs, leading to a loose, slanting ledge that demands steady commitment to move upward safely.

Advancing through second pitch, the route veers across shimmering slabs with well-placed bolts guiding your ascent. Here, the rock surfaces shift in texture, offering karmic rewards to those who read the line carefully and trust their balance. Combining P1 and P2 into a single push is a common strategy, keeping momentum through the lower section.

Pitch three ramps up to 5.8 difficulty with a mix of bolted and traditional protection. A small overlap tests your positioning before the climb drifts left toward a main corner. This right-facing corner isn’t just a physical feature; it feels like an active participant, pushing gently against your foot smears and demanding a smooth, confident layback crack technique as you ascend.

The final pitch ratchets difficulty to 5.9 with a series of delicate bolt-protected moves. A rising traverse requires careful footwork and balance, followed by a broken groove and a thin finger crack that beckon precision. The last slab move is guarded by a final bolt and challenges your ability to maintain composure on less-than-obvious holds. Reaching the two-bolt anchor at Goat Wall’s summit delivers a well-earned sense of accomplishment.

From here, a short scramble veers left and upward toward the NW Ridge of Half Dome. The approach continues along a gentle ridge towards Half Dome’s SW face. A brief steep descent and contour along loose talus link this climb into further riding lines that beckon exploration. The setting’s raw texture—the crunch of loose rock underfoot, the sharp scent of alpine air, and intermittent views toward forested valleys—immerses you in a climbing experience rooted deeply in the mountain’s rugged reality.

Starters is well-protected with bolted anchors throughout, but a standard rack for traditional placements is essential, especially on the more demanding middle and upper pitches. The route suits climbers familiar with slab and crack climbing who want a multi-pitch adventure that’s varied and rewarding without feeling overrun.

Plan to start early to take full advantage of the morning shade cast by Goat Wall’s west-facing aspect, especially during warmer months. Wear reliable climbing shoes with solid edging capabilities, and carry hydration suited to mountain exposure. The descent involves scrambling and negotiating loose talus, so sturdy approach shoes and careful footing on the return are critical for safety.

Whether you're stepping into trad multi-pitch climbing or seeking an accessible yet textured objective in the Kootenays, Starters presents a vivid encounter with the mountain’s subtle challenges and direct rewards. It’s a climb that asks for attention to detail, patience with the rock’s quirks, and appreciation for a climb that unfolds one intentional move at a time.