Mammoth Lakes, located in the Eastern Sierra region of California, is a climber’s paradise with world-class granite and volcanic rock formations. From beginners to advanced climbers, there is something for everyone when visiting this picturesque mountain range. If you’re traveling to Mammoth Lakes, climbing must be on your to-do list as well as staying in a beautiful Mammoth Lakes condo rental.
Mammoth Lakes Climbing
Rock climbing in Mammoth Lakes should be at the top of every adventurer’s bucket list. The breathtaking views are a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Here are some of the most popular climbing areas in Mammoth Lakes:
The Buttermilks is a boulder field with over 3000 rocks. It is a must-visit destination for climbers of all levels. The area is known for its highball boulder problems requiring strength, technique, and mental fortitude.
The Happy and Sad Boulders are amazing for climbing and have a fun name that is sure to delight friends and followers. These two boulder fields near the Buttermilks offer various climbing options, including steep overhangs, slabs, and cracks.
Clark Canyon offers sport and traditional climbing on volcanic tuff and granite formations. The routes range from 5.7 to 5.14, making it a great destination for climbers of all levels.
Crystal Crag is a classic alpine rock climb. It offers a challenging ascent to the summit with stunning views of the surrounding Sierra Nevada mountains.
Laurel Mountain offers a classic alpine climb with a mix of trad and sport climbing. The route to the summit includes a 5.9 chimney and a 5.10+ off-width, making it a challenging but rewarding climb.
Horseshoe Slabs and Sunshine Wall are a favorite amongst local guides. Horseshoe Slabs is perfect for families and kids with its easy approach, shaded area, and varied terrain suitable for beginners and experienced climbers. Sunshine Wall, located just a short distance from Horseshoe Slabs, offers longer, more challenging routes. Sunshine Wall is the perfect choice for climbers seeking a more adventurous experience.
North Shore Crag offers amazing views of June Lake. It is an ideal location for larger groups, and the shorter route gives you enough time to explore everything.
Ground Up Climbing
Now that you know all about the best places for Mammoth Lake rock climbing, it’s time to gear up and hit the boulders. Ground Up Climbing has some of the best guides in the area and provides a fun and exciting rock climbing experience.
About
At Ground Up Climbing, they are passionate about introducing people to the thrill of outdoor rock climbing in Mammoth Lakes and beyond. They specialize in helping new and novice climbers experience the joy of climbing in a safe and supportive environment. However, they also cater to seasoned climbers and offer guided climbs of California’s best sport and multi-pitch climbs.
With years of experience running kids camps and working with families, they understand how to make the most of their clients’ day, provide the right terrain, and encourage them to be comfortable with their skill level of climbing to ensure the best experience.
Their team is made up of highly trained professionals. Owner & Lead Guide, Clay Tyson, has been guiding for ten years and rock climbing for 20. Lead Guide, Forrest Schwab, has guided the Sierra on rock and snow for nine years. And Guide Robbie Kellett discovered his passion for climbing six years ago and has been teaching at Mammoth Mountain’s ski school.
Climbing Areas
Ground Up Climbing offers guided climbs to some of the most beautiful crags in California. Let them take you on a journey through Clark Canyon, Crystal Crag, Horseshoe Slabs, Sunshine Wall, and North Shore Crag.
Programs
If you want to step up your climbing game, Ground Up offers programs and camps suitable for children and adults.
Craggin Days is an annual event that is held over several weekends in March and April. You will climb the granite monzonite Alabama Hills and put your skills to the test. Camping is done at Tuttle Creek Campground, and the program includes harnesses, helmets, and shoes.
The Ground Up Climbing Camp is perfect for kids ages 8 to 15. They will learn to become better climbers around the Eastside. Each camp is for three days, taking place in July and August.
If your children have climbed with Ground Up before and want to challenge themselves, the Advanced Climbing Camp is perfect. The two-day program features climbing at Clark Canyon, which is sure to elevate any child’s climbing skills.
Plan Your Mammoth Lakes Visit
Don’t just read about these amazing climbs – book your Mammoth Lakes condo and get started on your next adventure!
Via Ferrata
Mammoth Mountain presents an exciting opportunity for outdoor enthusiasts to experience guided climbing on its rugged cliffs. Via Ferrata, which translates to “iron path,” is a system of climbing routes comprising steel cables, iron rungs, and suspended bridges that climbers can securely attach themselves to for safety.
With six diverse routes gradually increasing in difficulty, Via Ferrata is an excellent alpine activity that caters to families and individuals. Via Ferrata is situated on the rough cliffs beneath the Caldera Overlook, adjacent to McCoy Station.
The journey commences with a 3-hour private or 90-minute group tour from the Adventure Center, followed by a ride on the Panorama Gondola up to McCoy Station for a brief orientation.
Your guide will then lead you on a short hike to the base of the Via Ferrata and determine the best climbing route(s) based on your comfort and ability. Once you reach the summit, you can descend through downclimbing or return to the bottom via the hiking trail.
International Alpine Guides
International Alpine Guides is another well-trusted company for Mammoth Lake rock climbing. American Mountain Guides Association-trained guides will take you through the beautiful Mammoth Lakes in groups or privately.
Intro Class
If you are new to climbing Mammoth Lakes, this intro course is just what you need. The trained and certified guides will teach you the basics of climbing, including moving on the rock face, belaying techniques, rappelling, knots, and much more.
Traditional
Another beginner’s rock climbing course is the Traditional course. It is ideal for newbies and those who want to brush up on the basics. The professional guides will teach you about face and crack climbing, basic anchor building, rappelling, and more. This two-day event allows climbers to learn more about the basics than from the Intro course.
Private
If groups aren’t your thing or you want to visit a specific location, try out the Private tours offered by International Alpine Guides. An AMGA-certified guide can take you through Benton Crags, Rock Creek Canyon, Pine Tree Canyon, and more.
Stay With Viewpoint Condos
After a long day of rock climbing Mammoth Lakes, you will need a cozy place to hang up your climbing gear. Luckily, condo rentals in Mammoth Lakes are plentiful. Staying in a Mammoth Lake condo is the best way to experience the beauty of this area.
Viewpoint Condos has one-bedroom lofts, mountain view units, village-side condos, clubhouse-side condos, premium condos, and more to fit your vacation needs. Enjoy amazing amenities like an onsite pool, pickleball courts, a clubhouse, a jacuzzi, and a steam room.
Our Mammoth Lakes condos include a fully equipped kitchen, a fireplace with complimentary firewood, TV, towels, and linens, and a balcony to see the breathtaking views of Mammoth Lakes.
Summer reservations are opening soon, so book the best condos in Mammoth Lakes now!
