SAYWARD CLIMBING FIELD GUIDE
Nomash Slab: The North Island’s Quiet Granite Cathedral
A two-day guided climb on pristine Haihte Range granite — this guide distills route options, logistics, and what intermediate climbers need to know to experience Nomash Slab.
Nomash Slab: The North Island’s Quiet Granite Cathedral.
Nomash Slab sits high and remote in the Haihte Range: a broad, high-quality granite slab that offers multi-pitch climbing away from busy crags. Over two days climbers move from a short approach and remote campsite into sustained technical slab routes that showcase clean rock, long pitches, and a peaceful semi-alpine setting.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Remote, serene granite in the Haihte Range
Nomash Slab’s setting is quietly alpine — a semi‑alpine granite formation that offers a peaceful alternative to busier climbing areas, where the rock quality rivals the best granite in the region.
Sustained multi‑pitch routes up to 16 pitches
Route options include Wapti Mainline, Snake and Bake, and Forever, with grades reaching into the 5.11 range and individual objectives that can run as long as 16 pitches — ideal for intermediate climbers seeking technical slab and endurance challenges.
Expert guidance and technical setup provided
The trip is guided and the operator supplies climbing ropes, technical equipment, and a rappel setup so participants can focus on movement and route management while connecting with a remote granite landscape.
What the day feels like
What the two-day climb feels like
The itinerary moves deliberately: a short approach and an evening at a remote campsite set the tone, followed by a full day on the slab tackling multi‑pitch lines. Climbers spend long periods on exposed granite, managing rope systems and sustained slab techniques while enjoying a quiet wilderness atmosphere.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this trip suits — and who should look elsewhere.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
This is a two‑day guided trip that follows a short approach and campsite on the first evening with a full day of climbing afterward.
Personal climbing gear (shoes, harness, helmet), food, and any personal items; technical ropes and rappel setup are provided by the operator.
Guides, climbing ropes, technical equipment, and a rappel setup are included in the trip package.
Transportation and personal food are not included; plan for independent travel arrangements to the general access area and for provisioning.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is the trip?
The outing is conducted over two days, with a short approach and campsite on the first evening followed by a full day of climbing.
What climbing grades and route lengths can I expect?
Routes at Nomash Slab reach grades up to about 5.11 and some objectives can be as long as 16 pitches.
What is included in the trip price?
The trip includes a guide, climbing ropes, technical equipment, and a rappel setup.
What personal gear do I need to bring?
Participants must bring personal climbing gear such as shoes, a harness, and a helmet, as well as food for the trip.
What experience and fitness level are required?
This trip is aimed at intermediate climbers; a high fitness level and previous multi‑pitch experience are recommended.