Multipitch Climb
quick details
- 1-4 People
- 4-8 Hours
- Moderate to Difficult
- Starting at $275
Or call/text us at (916) 299-0711
Get way off "the deck" on an epic adventure
If you’ve already experienced climbing in a single-pitch setting, you are ready to take things to new heights, literally!
You can follow us up awesome cliffs and get into some truly epic positions. Let’s climb a mega-classic or get off the beaten path on a hidden gem!
Vertical Pursuits offers multipitch climbing trips at many of our locations; including Lover’s Leap, Donner Summit, Calaveras Dome, Pine Creek Canyon, Cosumnes River Gorge, El Potrero Chico Mexico, and Moab, Utah.
Lover's Leap
Lover’s Leap is a climber’s paradise with towering granite walls reaching up to 600 feet, crisscrossed with cracks and horizontal dikes that make for moderate yet thrilling multi-pitch routes. With over 250 routes ranging from easy traverses to challenging four-pitch climbs, there’s something for every climber. Though popular, Lover’s Leap has hidden gems that ensure you’ll find solitude if you venture off the beaten path. Just a short and easy hike from the parking lot, it’s one of California’s most accessible and diverse climbing spots.
Classic Routes:
- Bears Reach (5.7), East Wall
- East Cracks (5.7), East Wall
- Corrugation Corner (5.7), Main Wall
- Surrealistic Pillar (5.7), Lower Buttress
- Haystack (5.8), East Wall
- The Line (5.9), East Wall
- Traveler Buttress (5.9), Main Wall
- Hospital Corner (5.10a), Main Wall
Sample Itinerary:
8:00-8:15 Meet your guide at the Lover’s Leap Campground, discuss the day’s plan, and do a gear check.
8:15-8:30 Hike to the wall.
8:30-9:00 Get an introduction to the new skills you will need to multipitch climb.
9:00-3:30 Climb your heart out! You will likely do multiple routes or perhaps some single-pitch climbing or instruction after your multipitch.
3:30-4:00 Pack up shop and head back to the vehicles.
(Half-Day trips will be similar but you’ll probably only climb one multipitch.)
Pricing:
Half Day
1 Person | $275
2nd Person | +$100
Full Day
1 Person | $475
2nd Person | +$100
3 or more people | Repeat above pricing for additional multipitch guides.
Calaveras Dome
Calaveras Dome is a hidden gem in the Sierra backcountry, offering climbers an unforgettable experience on nearly 2,000 feet of perfect granite. With routes ranging from single-pitch challenges to classic multipitch adventures to epic big wall aid climbs, there’s something for every climber. The area boasts striking splitter cracks, smooth slabs with ample knobs, and dikes that stretch for hundreds of feet. Despite its grandeur, Calaveras Dome remains off the beaten path, with secluded camping nearby, providing a serene escape reminiscent of Yosemite in the 1960s.
Classic Routes:
- Wings and Stings (5.7), Hammer Dome
- Gemini Cracks (5.8), Hammer Dome
- Sands of Time (5.9), Calaveras Dome
- Wall of the Worlds (5.10c), Calaveras Dome
Sample Itinerary:
8:00-8:15 Meet your guide at the trailhead, discuss the day’s plan, and do a gear check.
8:15-8:45 Hike to the wall.
8:45-9:00 Get an introduction to the new skills you will need to multipitch climb.
9:00-3:30 Climb your heart out! You will likely do multiple routes or perhaps some single-pitch climbing or instruction after your multipitch.
3:30-4:00 Pack up shop and head back to the vehicles.
Pricing:
Full Day Only
1 Person | $550
2nd Person | +$100
3 or more people | Repeat above pricing for additional multipitch guides.
El Potrero Chico, Mexico
El Potrero Chico is a sport-climbing haven, featuring limestone routes that stretch up to 20 pitches. Just a short walk from local accommodations, this destination offers an incredible variety of bolted climbs in a stunning Chihuahuan desert setting. With classic routes that can fill a week or more of climbing, it’s an ideal spot for those seeking adventure and beautiful scenery. After your climb, the nearby town of Hidalgo offers a local market and cozy cafes to unwind in, adding to the charm of this unique climbing destination.
Classic Routes:
- Will the Wolf Survive? (5.10a)
- Treasure of the Sierra Madre (5.10c)
- Snott Girlz (5.10+)
- Space Boys (5.10d)
- Pitch Black (5.10d)
- Off the Couch (5.10d)
Sample Itinerary:
Most folks will want to book multiple days of climbing over a longer trip down to Mexico. Reach out to us and we’ll be able to give you the skinny on getting down there, finding lodging, etc.
Other Locations
We’ve got a bunch of other awesome locations to multipitch climb! Everything from massive overnight Big Wall climbs to perfect routes for a first time climber. Hit us up and we can pick the right place to adventure for the time of year, your experience level, and what you’re looking for.
Locations:
Frequently Asked Questions
What exactly is multi-pitch climbing?
Unlike single-pitch climbing which takes place on the ground, multipitch climbing ascends a large cliff face in multiple segments or “pitches”. Your guide will climb first and then belay you up to them, rinse and repeat and you can climb huge cliffs! To descend, you either hike off the top of the cliff or rappel. This is such a fulfilling experience and we hope you’ll join us!
Who is this multi-pitch climbing experience ideal for?
Anyone with some climbing experience and a thirst for adventure will have a great time on a multi-pitch climb. We usually do not recommend that first-time climbers begin on a multi-pitch but with our variety of locations and expert guides we can accommodate an adventurous first-timer! Unsure if it’s right for you? Just reach out!
What safety standards do you have?
Our guides are trained and certified by the internationally recognized American Mountain Guides Association and operate within their industry-recommended Scope of Practice. They hold wilderness medical certifications and emergency communication devices.
That’s a lot of jargon. The bottom line is that our guides have been working professionally for over a decade each, have done thousands of days on the rock with people like you without incident, and have all the applicable industry training.
Climbing is inherently dangerous.
I do not have a harness or helmet. Do you have this available to rent?
No worries, we have everything for you! Be sure to let us know as soon as you book what equipment you will want to borrow from us so that we are sure we have it for your trip. We currently lend equipment at no charge!
Do I need to bring a lunch?
Yes! You will want to bring a simple sack lunch and water for your day. Easily packable items like a sandwich, energy bars, trail mix, etc. are recommended.
How does cancellation or rescheduling work?
Please refer to our Terms & Conditions for details.
Quick Details
- 1-4 People
- 4-8 Hours
- Moderate to Difficult
- Starting at $275
Or call/text us at (916) 299-0711
stoked
Climbers!
EXCELLENT Based on 58 reviews Posted on Ethan F31 March 2026Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Kevin brought me and a buddy out to sport climb for the first time, and it was a great time. He's a great mentor who's friendly, knowledgeable, and willing to answer all your stupid questions. He went above and beyond to be helpful, and offered resources even after our day of climbing. Highly recommend!Posted on Tim Blair30 March 2026Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Kevin was an awesome teacher and guide. Classes feel more personal because of the limited number of people. We took the trad class, learned how to place gear effectively, then put it to the test the same day. I felt incredibly safe and confident in my and Kevin’s abilities. Thank you for a great climbing day!Posted on Phoenix Morrow30 March 2026Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Awesome time learning the basics of Trad climbing with Kevin. The small group helped me and my partner feel like we were able to ask all the questions we needed, and we were able to receive constructive feedback. The guides are very knowledgeable. Highly recommend.Posted on Melisa Hickman19 March 2026Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Vertical Pursuits is AWESOME!! I had a trad lesson with Kevin at Sugarloaf. Kevin was extremely safe, thorough, and encouraging. We had just the right balance of ground school and climbing. Before my day with Kevin I was afraid to try anything harder than a 5.7 crack and he helped me to bust right through that fear with his calm, reassuring guidance. I had the best day with him and I feel totally ready to push through my plateau.Posted on Roseville MTB Dad13 March 2026Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I really can't recommend Vertical Pursuits, and Kevin Heinrich in particular as my guide, strongly enough. I'm in my mid-50s, very new to climbing and until quite recently never gave the prospect of entering the vertical world a moment's thought. Not wild about heights, highly risk-averse, etc. I stumbled into it by accident, with my 19-year-old son along for the ride. We found VP via local search and hooked up w/ Kevin for some prelims at Auburn Quarry, School Rock (Donner) and Cosumnes River Gorge. I got my first taste of multipitch at School Rock and was hooked. On relatively short notice, Kevin challenged me to a massive 2-day epic at Red Rock Canyon NV. Without thinking too much about it, I decided to give it a shot not really knowing what I was getting myself into. Day 1 he led me up 5.6 Geronimo in six pitches and we rappelled down (also six pitches) - huge, epic, wildly fun. Day 2 we just went harder and bigger, tackling 5.7 Group Therapy/Tunnel Vision in six pitches with a balls-out walk/scramble off that was almost as hard (and scary) as the climb! Kevin got me up and down safely both days and I had the time of my life. We had a lot of laughs, an epic adventure, and a profoundly positive, life-changing experience for me. Kevin is also a great teacher, coach, and mentor. And an authentic human being (even if he is a vegan!). Engaging, patient, and a good sense of humor. Very good at holding you accountable without being nitpicky or pedantic about it, utterly meticulous with safety procedures but knows when to let things slide a little and when to hold firm with the coaching/corrections. Patience is such a virtue, especially for a guide - working with someone who has vastly inferior skills and knowledge (me), never once did he exhibit the slightest frustration or impatience even at times when it must have been hard not to - particularly during the Tunnel Vision walk-off when I was far slower and more unsure of myself than he. Last but certainly not least - the real deal when it comes to climbing. Exceptionally skilled. I never had a doubt that he knew exactly what he was doing and that I was never at undue risk. It gave me the confidence I needed to keep pushing and do something I never thought I could do. You can't put a price on that. Thanks Kevin - look forward to many more adventures!Posted on Gil Takemori17 February 2026Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Fun, educational, nicely curated climbing in one of the premier destinations anywhere. Kevin and Erik are careful guides that ensure that amazing balance of memorable yet comfortable climbs while imparting their decades of experience along the way. You might be able to learn multi pitch techniques from your buddies, but getting trained by these AMGA Certified Guides will make your climbing a whole lot safer and more efficient!Posted on Rebecca Allyn16 February 2026Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I came out from the East Coast not sure what to expect, but knowing I wanted to become a more independent climber and have some fun while my family and friends were stuck in a deep freeze back home. This experience exceeded any expectation I could have had. Kevin is at heart a teacher in addition to being a total adventurer. He's super focused on developing his climbers' competencies versus just hauling them up the mountain. We had the best time I've ever had outdoors - a fabulous mix of long, epic multipitch climbs and shorter routes where we could lead and put all that learning into action. The ground school sessions were invaluable for building real skills. If you're looking to level up your climbing abilities while having an incredible outdoor adventure, I can't recommend this highly enough. Kevin's approach makes you a better, more confident climber - not just someone who got to the top of a mountain.Posted on Jessica Rose4 February 2026Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Went on a rock climbing and yoga retreat in EPC with Erik and it was INCREDIBLE. Great instruction, great climbs, great vibes. I was one of the relatively newer-to-outdoor-climbing folks on the trip, and Erik was both patient and thorough in answering any and all of my questions. He helped build my confidence with lead climbing and lead belaying and I always felt super supported. Can't wait to play rocks with Erik again!Posted on Michael Westbrook2 December 2025Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Took the SPI course and exam with Kevin. We learned all of the required AMGA stuff and also got a lot of practical insights into the business.Posted on J. C.8 September 2025Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Vertical Pursuits is THE BEST rock climbing guiding service I’ve ever experienced. Erik has been our guide for years and he is reliable, prepared, knowledgeable, ready-for-anything, positive and downright fun. I always feel safe, supported, yet gently challenged with Erik. I always have the best time with Vertical Pursuits. If you’re looking to bridge into outdoor rock climbing or even up your climbing game, then Vertical Pursuits is the choice for you!! I Highly recommend!