The new Golden Peak route is pioneered by French and Pakistani mountaineers.

Early in June, Pakistani Muizzuddinn and French alpinist Mathieu Maynadier blazed a new trail up the East Ridge of Spantik (7,027 m), also referred to as Golden Peak in the Karakoram range.
The climb, which was led by a local climber and took place from June 2 to June 7, was Pakistan’s first significant mountain opening. The recently constructed 1,800-meter “Zindabad (long live)” route has an 80° incline and is graded M5 A1. It is anticipated to rank among the nation’s most famous climbs this summer.
Before setting up higher camps at 5,200m and 5,800m, the two waited out 10 days of bad weather and spent 20 days acclimating at the base camp. They exploited a weather window despite the danger, enduring five days of fresh snow and shaky slabs. A hazardous wind slab forced them to abandon their attempt just meters from the top, but the completion of the route was celebrated as a sign of patriotism.
With a final bivouac at 5,800m, their normal descent took 36 hours. This accomplishment marks the beginning of Muizz’s larger objective to become the first mountain guide in Pakistan to receive UIAGM certification.
This summer, Muizz intends to start training in France. He hopes to help resurrect domestic training schools and guide programs in Pakistan after earning his certification by 2029.
A notable example of Spantik’s esteemed history of technical ascents is the French-Slovenian ascent of its north face, known as “Golden Pillar,” in 2000. Already a supporter of Pakistani alpinism, Maynadier has accomplished a number of the area’s first ski descents and ascents.