About Us
Ground Up Climbing Guides connects people to the thrill of outdoor rock climbing in Mammoth Lakes and beyond.
We specialize in helping new and novice climbers experience outdoor rock climbing, but we don’t stop there. We also challenge more experienced climbers on guided climbs of some of the best sport and multi-pitch climbs that California has to offer.
With years of experience running kids camps and working with families, we know how to make the most of your day, put you on the right terrain, and encourage you to push beyond your preconceived limits and (sometimes!) your comfort zones.
We also run Pedal Up Bike Tours, a bikepacking/bike touring guide service in Mammoth Lakes. We use the same values and mountain expertise to get you out on an amazing bike tour in the Eastern Sierra.
Want to know more about Ground Up? See what our clients have to say about us (more than 100 5-star reviews!)
“Ground Up took us to climb in a place that looked terrifying - and they made it a super safe and a doable challenge! Everyone had a great time!!! Highlight of our trip to the area, highly recommended.”
Who We Are
Clay Tyson | Owner & Lead Guide
Clay has been guiding for 10 years and rock climbing for 20. After running an indoor climbing center for eight years, Clay trained as a climbing guide and started guiding in the Gunks of New York as well as the Sierra in California. He taught skiing at Mammoth Mountain for many years, and recently launched Skin Up Ski Tours. He’s worked with kids, families and adults in a variety of outdoor settings. Clay is AMGA trained and WFR certified.
Forrest Schwab | Lead Guide
Forrest grew up in Marblehead, Massachusetts and has climbed extensively throughout New England. He has been guiding in the Sierra for nine years on both rock and snow. He has run the Mammoth Lakes Climbing Camp with Clay for the past six years, and he has vast experience guiding longer backcountry multi-pitch routes. Forrest is AMGA trained and WFR certified.
Robbie Kellett | Guide
Robbie started climbing in San Luis Obispo, California six years ago, but once he discovered climbing in the Sierra Nevada, there was no going back. After taking his Single Pitch Instructor course he decided to move to Mammoth Lakes and teach at Mammoth Mountain’s ski school and share his passion for climbing with others. He’s AMGA trained and WFR certified.