Where We Climb
We take you to some of our favorite crags in the Eastern Sierra.
Most of our guiding happens in two distinct regions: the greater Mammoth Lakes area (aka Lee Vining to Bishop) and in the Alabama Hills recreation area outside of Lone Pine, two hours south of Mammoth Lakes.
Mammoth Lakes Climbing Areas
Climbers suffer from an abundance of riches in the Mammoth Lakes area. We focus on a handful of climbing crags that serve the needs of our guests remarkably well. Here are a few of our favorites.
Clark Canyon
This is our favorite sport climbing area that has something for everyone. Clark Canyon offers world class bolted sport climbing on a volcanic tuft. The views of the Sierra range from the top of the climbs is legendary. Routes range from 5.7 that most 8 year-olds can manage to, well, as hard as you want to go. The road to Clark Canyon is rugged, and a vehicle with a little clearance (a Subaru Outback or better) is required.
Horseshoe Slabs and Sunshine Wall in the Mammoth Lakes Basin
Nestled in the scenic Mammoth Lakes Basin, Horseshoe Slabs is our go-to spot for kids and families. This crag features a casual approach, tall pine trees to shade the area, and terrain that suits beginners as well as experienced climbers. It’s an ideal spot for almost anyone.
Sunshine Wall is just up the hill from Horseshoe Slabs and offers longer, harder routes for slightly more experienced or adventurous climbers.
June Lake North Shore
Offering spectacular views of June Lake and the surrounding jagged peaks, North Shore Crag is a perfect spot for a larger group outing with lots of kids. Shorter routes mean you can get lots of laps in and you’ll satisfy that dream of getting to the top of the climb.
Crystal Crag
Crystal Crag is a prized climbing gem. For many clients, it’s the first taste of multi-pitch climbing. It’s an aggressive, long day filled with unbeatable views of the Mammoth Lakes Basin and beyond. We guarantee every time you look at Crystal Crag looming above the lakes, you’ll remember standing on top.
Lone Pine Climbing Areas
Lone Pine is home to Alabama Hills and the Whitney Portal climbing area, both incredibly scenic locations. Lone Pine is just two hours south of Mammoth Lakes (and two hours closer to Southern California), making it a great complement to the Mammoth area, especially in the winter months when most of the Eastern Sierra is buried in snow.
Alabama Hills
The Alabama Hills National Scenic Area is a stunning climbing area with amazing views of Mt. Whitney. The climbs are varied in difficulty, length, and style, so there’s something for everyone.