Home / All Programs / Alpine Climbing & Mountaineering / Crystal Crag – An Introduction to Alpine Rock Climbing
Crystal Crag – An Introduction to Alpine Rock Climbing
$395
Dates
- May 10, 17, & 31 | June 6, 14, 20, 21, & 28 | July 11, 12, & 25 | August 2, 15, & 23 | September 12, & 27
Crystal Crag is the perfect introduction to multi-pitch climbing in an alpine environment. Our AMGA-certified guides will lead you up the this impressive feature’s North Ridge. We start with a few pitches of steeper climbing, approximately 5.7, before a roped ridge traverse leads us to the summit. If you are comfortable climbing single-pitch routes and are ready to take your climbing to the next level, then this climb is for you! We will review the placement and removal of traditional climbing protection. Additionally, we cover multi-pitch systems, managing belays, and simple anchoring techniques. On top of that, our program includes a focus on energy conservation and climbing efficiently on multi-pitch routes.
Crystal Crag is a well-known local landmark located just outside of Mammoth Lakes in the Lakes Basin. A gleaming white band of quartz cuts across the peak attracting climbers to this unique and interesting feature. Crystal Crag is often used as a warm-up day for our Alpine Rock Climbs.
Prerequisites
Before joining us for an ascent of Crystal Crag, it’s crucial that you are familiar with belaying and can tie into the rope without assistance. Additionally, you should be in good physical condition and feel comfortable climbing 5.7. If you do not have these skills, consider checking out our Introduction to Rock Climbing Class. We will have you ready for Crystal Crag in no time.
Acclimatization & Physical Training
For proper acclimatization, we suggest spending at least one night at a moderate altitude, higher than 8,000 feet, just prior to the start of the journey. See our detailed tips on acclimatizing and physical training in the “Resources” tab.
Our ascent of Crystal Crag begins at the Lake George trailhead. We hike the well graded and maintained trail to Crystal Lake, nestled next to Crystal Crag. Leaving the trail here we traverse a short distance through open forest to the base of our chosen route, the North Ridge. The difficulties of the climb are concentrated into the first four pitches on the steepest portion of the ridge. The ridge leads us to the crystal band where we climb a small gleaming white corner in the band. Above this we move roped together along a narrow exposed ridge to the summit. We enjoy the views before descending the easier side of the peak.
Throughout the day we will cover the following:
- Placement and removal of artificial climbing protection
- Equipment handling skills
- Multi pitch climbing systems
- Managing belays
- Simple anchoring techniques
- Energy conservation and climbing efficiently on multi-pitch routes.
Rental Equipment
We have rental equipment available at checkout.
Reviews
Amanda, Intro to Mountaineering and more
“I have done a few trainings with Sierra Mountain Center and I highly recommend them as a training source for all your adventures. Last year I did their river crossing and a mountaineering basic course. I recently completed the mini mountain camp and I had the best time. I learned so much! My guide was Anouk and she was so badass. She taught me so much! I had a blast and I can’t wait to take my mountaineering to the next level. I will definitely use SMC as a future training source.”
More Reviews
Fred, Mt. Whitney East Buttress
“Used SMC for a climb of the East Buttress of Mt. Whitney June 17, 2024. Great experience all the way around. Dave was my guide and I highly recommend choosing them for your Sierra adventure!”
Jason, Palisade Traverse
“What a fantastic trip put together for us by the Sierra Mountain Center. From the start Emma was fantastic and professional in the coordination efforts for our Palisade Traverse trip. My son and I had a 1:1 guide ratio and the guides, Dave Stimson and Tyler Logan, were exceptional. Exceptional in their knowledge of the route, their efficiency with rope craft and their trailside manner – despite the exhausting climb we had such a fun time. We are already planning next year’s outing with SMC.”
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