When I’m in Rifle, my sole focus is climbing. I wake up with an eagerness akin to a child at Disneyland, ready to tackle warmup routes at first light. My guidebook is my bedtime companion, complete with a meticulously crafted list of routes I’ve selected the night before. However, I’m working on channeling that impatience into productive preparation, especially on chilly mornings when the rock demands a bit more warmth.
Before gearing up for a day of highperformance climbing, utilizing the downtime effectively is key. As I sip coffee and adjust to the morning chill, I prioritize planning ahead to ensure I’m adequately fueled throughout the day. Here’s a look at my goto meals that are quick and nutritious, all doable in a van or at a campsite.
Breakfast: Oatmeal Gumbo
To kick off the day, I start by boiling water with my JetBoil and, of course, brewing plenty of coffee. This caffeine becomes my ally throughout the day. While the water heats, I grab an apple for a quick bite. For breakfast, I prepare my oatmeal in a bowl, complemented by a variety of delightful toppings to customize my meal.
Ingredients:
Oatmeal
Hot water
Optional AddOns:
Banana
Cinnamon
Raisins
Dried fruit (especially berries)
Trail mix
Granola
Honey
Almond butter
Protein powder
Cacao
Oreos
Fig Newtons
Pop Tarts
Lunch: Tuna or Salmon Tacos
For lunch, I whip up a simple yet satisfying taco using prepackaged tuna or salmon. These proteinpacked snacks are convenient and delicious when on the go.
Ingredients:
Tuna or salmon packet
Fresh tortillas
Avocado
Simply spread the fish over a tortilla, add mashed avocado, roll it up, and enjoy the burst of flavors.
Snacks: OntheGo Belay Bag
My crag snacks are designed for performance: providing immediate energy, easy digestion, freshness, and resilience against the elements. Here’s what I pack in my belay bag:
Chocolate GU gels with caffeine
Fresh apples
Bobo’s bars
Energy tablets (caffeine and electrolytes) for hydration
A hearty bag of trail mix
Dinner: Ancient Ramen Bowl with a Twist
As the day winds down, I prepare a cozy dinner consisting of a quick ramen bowl, enriched with flavors and nutrients.
Ingredients:
Broth packet or sodiumfree bouillon
Water
Garlic
Ginger
Dried shiitake mushrooms
Dried kale
Any additional dehydrated vegetables
I start by sautéing garlic and ginger in a pot, then add water and mix in the broth. Following that, I incorporate the mushrooms, kale, and other veggies, boiling until tender. For a unique touch, I sometimes sprinkle in crushed Oreos for a hint of sweetness or crushed chips if I’m craving something savory.
By preparing these simple, nutritious meals, climbers can maximize their energy levels and focus during intense days on the rock. Planning ahead is not just about eating—it’s about fueling your passion and enhancing your climbing experience.
