Rock Climbing in Lake Tahoe: Our Favorite Local Spots
Rock Climbing in Lake Tahoe: Our Favorite Local Spots
If you’re coming to Tahoe with climbing shoes and a crash pad in the trunk, you’re in luck. There are some really fun climbing areas scattered around the lake, from easy bouldering and beginner single-pitch routes to classic multi-pitch climbs.
We’ve put together a few of our favorite spots depending on what kind of climbing you’re looking for, plus a few ideas for where to stay and where to grab a drink or bite afterward.
SOUTH LAKE TAHOE: BOULDERING & EASY ACCESS
Christmas Valley Boulders
For an easy day of bouldering, Christmas Valley Boulders is one of our favorite options on the South Shore. Access from the parking area is relatively easy, making it a nice choice for families or anyone who doesn't want a big hike just to get to the rock.
It's a good spot to bring the crash pads, spend a few hours climbing, and not feel like you need to make an entire production out of it.
Best for: Families, beginners, bouldering, and a shorter climbing outing
Where to stay: Echo View Chalet or The Mountain Haus are the closest of our homes to the Christmas Valley area, but Sierra Sauna House, The Lake Trail Lodge, and Tahoe Black Cabin are all not too far either.
Photo by Viktoria McNamara
SOUTH LAKE TAHOE: SINGLE-PITCH CLIMBING
Pie Shop
Photo by Gantt Miller
If you're looking for single-pitch climbing around South Lake, we'd put Pie Shop high on the list. It's located off Sawmill Road, with a short walk from the parking area to the climbing.
There are plenty of routes in the 5.7 to 5.10 range, making it a fun option if you're comfortable climbing outdoors but aren't looking to tackle a big multi-pitch route. The area also has bouldering, so there's something for everyone.
After climbing, head back toward Meyers and stop at Divided Sky. It's one of those classic Tahoe local spots that feels especially good after a day outside. Grab a drink, get some food, and relax for a while before heading back to your rental.
Best for: Beginner to intermediate climbers and single-pitch routes
Where to stay: Echo View Chalet or The Mountain Haus are convenient South Lake home bases for a climbing weekend, and The Mountain Haus has a hot tub waiting for you when you're ready to call it a day.
SOUTH LAKE TAHOE: BEGINNER MULTI-PITCH
Lover's Leap: Hogsback
Photo By Viktoria McNamara
Ready to move from single-pitch climbing to your first multi-pitch adventure? Lover's Leap is one of the classic climbing areas in the Tahoe region.
For beginners, Hogsback is a great place to start, with a number of moderate routes in the 5.5 to 5.9 range. It's a good introduction to multi-pitch climbing for newer climbers and younger climbers who are ready to take things up a notch.
And once you're comfortable with multi-pitch climbing, head over to the Main Wall. There are tons of classic routes here, and it's an area you could come back to again and again as your climbing progresses.
If you don't have much multi-pitch experience, we'd definitely recommend going with a guide. Lover's Leap Guides is a great local outfitter if you'd like some help getting started. And if you book with them, ask for Petch. He's a colorful local legend and knows the Leap incredibly well!
Best for: First multi-pitch climbs for more experienced climbers.
Where to stay: Echo View Chalet or The Mountain Haus are the closest of our homes to Lover's Leap, but Sierra Sauna House, The Lake Trail Lodge, and Tahoe Black Cabin are all not too far either.
NEVADA SIDE: CLIMBING WITH A VIEW!
Castle Rock
Photo by Chris McNamara
If you're looking for climbing with a pretty incredible backdrop, head over to Castle Rock on the Nevada side of the lake.
There are plenty of single-pitch routes in the 5.7 to 5.10 range, so it's a good option for a moderate climbing day. There's a bit more of a hike to reach the crag than you'll find at some of the South Shore spots, but once you're there, the Lake Tahoe views make it worth the effort.
It's one of those places where you'll probably find yourself looking around between routes thinking, yeah, this is why we climb in Tahoe.
Best for: Single-pitch climbing, moderate routes, and lake views
Where to stay: The Tahoe Lodge in Zephyr Cove is a great option for a larger group and the closest of our homes to Castle Rock. It has seven bedrooms and plenty of room to spread out after a day on the rock. Otherwise, Sierra Sauna House, The Lake Trail Lodge, and Tahoe Black Cabin are all not too far either.
TRUCKEE & NORTH LAKE TAHOE: A LITTLE OF EVERYTHING
Donner Summit
Photo by Court Leve
If you have climbers of different abilities in your group, Donner Summit is a great place to look. There are routes ranging from beginner climbs around 5.3 all the way into much harder territory, so you can find something whether you're brand new to outdoor climbing or looking for your next challenge.
And one of the best parts about a Donner Summit climbing day? You can finish up, head down to Donner Lake and jump in for a swim. Because nothing feels quite as refreshing as getting into cold Tahoe-area water after spending the day on the rock.
Best for: Beginner through advanced climbers and groups with mixed experience levels
Where to stay: The Après Stay in Olympic Valley or Stuga '66
TAHOE CITY: SINGLE-PITCH SPORT CLIMBING
Big Chief
Photo by Adam Linamen
If you're staying around Tahoe City, Big Chief is a great option for single-pitch climbing. You'll find routes in the 5.7 to 5.11 range, making it a good choice for intermediate climbers and groups with different experience levels.
It's also a nice option if you want to spend the morning climbing and still have plenty of time left in the day for everything else Tahoe has to offer.
Just be sure to check current access before heading out, as road access to Big Chief can be seasonal.
Best for: Single-pitch sport climbing and intermediate climbers
Where to stay: The Après Stay in Olympic Valley or Stuga '66. Both make a great base for exploring the north side of the lake. The Après Stay is just a short walk from Palisades Tahoe village, while Stuga '66 puts you close to Tahoe City and the west shore.
MAKE A DAY OF IT
One of the things we love about climbing around Tahoe is that it doesn't have to be your entire day.
Climb for a few hours in the morning, grab lunch, go for a swim, and then find somewhere to watch the sunset. Or spend the whole day on the rock and come back to the house for a hot shower and a soak in the hot tub.
If you're climbing around Lover's Leap, Pie Shop, or Christmas Valley, we'd make a stop at Divided Sky in Meyers afterward. It's an easy way to turn a climbing day into a full Tahoe day.
And if you're staying with us, don't hesitate to ask April & Tor for recommendations. We live here and are always happy to point you toward a climbing area, restaurant, swimming spot or post-climb beer that makes sense for your trip.
A QUICK NOTE BEFORE YOU GO
Climbing areas around Tahoe can change with weather, access restrictions, seasonal closures, and current conditions. Route grades and approaches can also vary depending on the exact area you're visiting. Check current climbing information before you head out on the Mountain Project, and make sure you have the right gear and experience for the routes you're planning to climb.