Nestled in the legendary Sierra Nevada, the Owens River Gorge is California’s sport climbing paradise. The crag’s 300 densely concentrated routes on world-class volcanic tuff include face, crack, corner, off-width, and even some chimney climbs. Although the verticality of the climbs may make them seem a little intimidating, they are generously bolted and cleverly routed out, providing an excellent opportunity to learn new techniques or upgrade existing ones. And when you combine the climbs ranging from 5.6 to 5.13a with the area’s breathtaking tuff landscapes, you get a bucket-list sport climbing experience nearly unmatched on the West Coast.
Over 300 routes to discover and practice your skills on
Take your climbing further on hard compressed rock in varied formations
California’s most concentrated sport climbing area guarantees diverse and engaging climbs
57hours is committed to providing safe outdoor adventure experiences. We require all guides using our platform to have a COVID-19 safety plan and to make the details of that plan accessible to travelers. In most cases, group sizes will be reduced, guides will avoid overcrowded locations, and other safety measures will be met depending on the location and activity.
We also expect clients to respect local regulations and take measures to protect themselves, their guides, and the communities they’re traveling to. For more information on COVID-19 measures in Owens River Gorge, CA, please refer to the US Government’s international travel guidelines and California’s official COVID-19 travel advice.
Please contact us if you have any questions or require further information. We are happy to provide you with the most up-to-date information!
What you get on this adventure:
What’s not included:
If you can climb a ladder, you’re good to go. Being in good shape is always a plus but far from necessary. Rock climbing is all about using good movement technique rather than muscling up a cliff using brute strength. To ensure you have a fun day, your guide will choose routes that best suit your skill and fitness level.
For the Sport Climbing Course, participants must have prior experience top-roping 5.7 outside or 5.9 in the gym.
For the Multi-Pitch Sport Climbing Course, you’re expected to have taken a sport climbing course or have experience leading sport climbs at a grade of 5.6 or higher.
To participate in the Trad Climbing Course, you must have taken a previous sport climbing course or have experience top roping outside at a grade of 5.7 or higher and leading inside at a grade of 5.8 or higher.
Before participating in the Big Wall and Aid Climbing Course, you’re expected to have taken a trad multi-pitch climbing course or have experience leading trad multi-pitch climbs at a grade of 5.8 or higher.
For the Technical Self Rescue Course, participants are expected to have previous experience climbing multi-pitch climbs.
When it comes to technical climbing equipment, you’ll need:
Here’s a list of the equipment we suggest you bring:
You will be provided with a more detailed equipment list upon booking your desired course.
Some additional equipment, such as the assisted braking belay device, quickdraws, alpine draws, and micro-traction style device, can be provided by your guide.
Dress comfortably and for the weather in clothes you can move in. We suggest bringing clothing appropriate for the season. Layers are best and don’t wear jeans.
Group sizes and prices:
Please note that your guide might charge private course rates if less than 2 people sign up. Climbing courses in Owens River Gorge can be arranged for bigger groups. Contact us prior to booking.
Min. age requirements:
If your group has climbers under the age of 18, contact us prior to booking to make arrangements.
To get to the Owens River Gorge, most people fly into Reno Tahoe International Airport 4 hours away. From there, you can rent a car or take a bus.
Once you and your guide agree on the details of your itinerary, your guide will suggest the best place to meet, whether that’s at the guide shop or a predetermined location. The guide will choose the appropriate terrain dependent on conditions and the ability of the group.
Day Trips Cancellations
Fully refundable within the initial 48 hours from booking, unless the trip date is less than 7 days from the time of the booking.
Cancellations up to 7 days prior to the trip date are refundable 100%.
Cancellations within 7 days prior to the trip date are non-refundable.
