Operation GOAT

Operation GOAT

August 16, 2025 | Near Mount Rainier National Park, Washington

Distance: 9 +/- miles

Weight: 10 / 25 / 50 lbs dry

Elevation: 3,409 +/- elevation gain

Brief Start Time: Saturday, August 16, 2025 at 0700 hrs

Event Start Time: Saturday, August 16, 2025 at 0730 hrs

Start Location: Goat Peak Trailhead Parking, Washington

Event Finish Time: Saturday, August 16, 2025 at 1400 hrs

Finish Location: Goat Peak Trailhead Parking, Washington

Situation

Operation GOAT is a true test of strength and stamina, offering 9 miles of intense elevation gain—almost 3,500 feet in total. The challenge begins with a steep 3,000-foot ascent in the first three miles, pushing your limits right from the start. After conquering the climb, you’ll be rewarded with a more gradual descent, and the final 2.5 miles are relatively flat, allowing you to recover while still moving toward the finish. Candidates can choose their challenge with LIGHT, STANDARD, or HEAVY options, carrying 10, 25, or 50 lbs, depending on the desired intensity.

Located just two hours from Seattle and 30 minutes from Mount Rainier National Park, Operation GOAT takes place in one of the most beautiful parts of Washington. In August, the landscape is alive with vibrant wildflowers, and you may spot local wildlife like elk, eagles, or black bears. With panoramic views of the surrounding peaks and forests, this event offers not only a physical challenge but also an unforgettable experience in the Pacific Northwest's great outdoors.

Mission

GOAT LIGHT. Candidates must carry 10 lbs (dry weight) and complete the 9 +/- mile route in under 3.5 hours to pass and under 2 hours 45 minutes to earn the GBF Operation GOAT LIGHT Dog Tag.

GOAT. Candidates must carry 25 lbs (dry weight) and complete the 9 +/- mile route in under 4 hours to pass and under 3 hours 15 minutes to earn the GBF Operation GOAT Dog Tag.

GOAT HEAVY. Candidates must carry 50 lbs (dry weight) and complete the 9 +/- mile route in under 5 hours to pass and under 3 hours 45 minutes to earn the GBF Operation GOAT HEAVY Dog Tag.

Execution

Candidates will meet at the Goat Peak Trailhead Parking. At 0700 hours, GBF Staff will give an event brief before answering any questions and releasing the candidates to begin the route at 0730 hours.

Service Support

Mapping. GBF events use the AllTrails app for navigation. To download the route from AllTrails, you will need to sign up for a membership. GBF suggests candidates have a paper map, compass, and GPS too.

Route. Ensure you download the map for offline use. Cell service is not guaranteed. The route for Operation GOAT is here.

Weight. Candidates must carry a minimum of 10 / 25 / 50 lbs dry (i.e. without food and water) in a backpack. Weight vests or sandbags are not permitted.

Equipment

Mandatory Equipment

• Backpack (waterproof inner-bags)
• Phone (fully charged)
• Phone charger
• LifeStraw (or similar water filtration system)
• Head Torch (spare batteries)
• Hydration bladder(s)
• Whistle
• Compass
• Emergency rations (see below)
• Emergency shelter
• Personal First Aid Kit

Strongly Recommended

• Maps (waterproofed)
• GPS
• Blister kit
• Pocket knife
• Chem-light/Cyalume
• Hiking poles
• MRE(s)
• Bear Spray
• Garmin InReach or equivalent

Dress. Candidates' dress will be a personal choice. In August, the weather near Mount Rainier and the surrounding area is typically mild, with daytime temperatures ranging from the mid-60s to low 80s °F. Mornings and evenings can be cool, especially at higher elevations, so expect temperatures to drop into the 40s or 50s °F.

Checkpoints. There are no checkpoints on this route.

Water. There will be bottled water at the finish point. Candidates should carry enough water to last the route distance plus 3 additional miles, in case they get lost.

Rations. Candidates should have a minimum of 3 energy bars and 0.5 liters of water as emergency rations.

Medical. Every candidate requires a personal medical kit. GBF Staff must be made aware of any medical conditions before starting the event.

Transportation. Transport to and from the event will be at the candidate's arrangement.

Command and Signal. GBF HQ: 941-993-9432

The Fine Print

Numbers. Maximum number of candidates 30. Minimum number of candidates 10.

Refunds. Refunds will be in the form of a GBF voucher to use towards future events. Refunds must be requested 30 days before the event start date.

Event Changes. Slight changes to any event including, but not limited to route changes, brief times, start locations, and other details are under the discretion of GBF Staff.