Rock Climbing Tours and Trips

Experience Signature Camping on our scenic southern Lemosho Route, an 8 day climb of Mount Kilimanjaro. Mount Kilimanjaro, standing majestically at 19,340', is one of the seven summits of the world and the highest peak in Africa. Its massive, snow-capped mountains have long enticed climbers and adventurers from around the world. Our journey takes the supremely scenic Lemosho Route across six ecological zones, from lush rainforests to arid alpine desert, with plenty of time for acclimatization, before we stand tall at Uhuru Peak. Our unique approach to Kilimanjaro’s Southern Circuit incorporates new camp locations and our deluxe REI Signature Camps keep us comfy and energized. Our team of expert African guides are friendly and knowledgeable, leading us to the top and sharing insights about the region along the way. Upon reaching the summit, we rest a moment to watch the sunrise spread its golden rays across the savannah below. A deeply personal experience that is second to none, the memory of this climb is sure to remain with us forever.

Experience Signature Camping on our wild northern Rongai Route, a 7-day climb of Mount Kilimanjaro. Standing at Uhuru peak far above the clouds, one understands exactly what continues to draw climbers and adventurers from around the world to Kilimanjaro’s snow-capped crests. It is the highest peak in Africa and one of the seven summits of the world. But it’s truly the personal reward of getting to the summit, and the feeling of standing in solidarity with fellow adventurers while there, that keeps this climb at the top of so many bucket lists. Our journey follows the less-traveled Rongai Route, an approach that begins from the northern side of Kilimanjaro. This trail is a wilder and quieter way to trek across the area’s distinctive ecological zones. The route passes through forest, moorlands, alpine desert and beautiful arctic zones. Along the way, our team of top African guides provide unmatched knowledge and support. Enjoy evenings spent under the night sky in large, comfortable tents, weary but more alive than ever. It is a deeply rejuvenating experience that is second to none.

Spend 6 days climbing Mount Kilimanjaro on our classic hut-to-hut Marangu Route, an accomplishment unlike any other. Rising abruptly from the surrounding savannah at 19,340', summiting Mount Kilimanjaro is an immensely challenging experience. The reward at the top is more than worth it: unparalleled vantage points, a true bond formed between like-minded adventurers, and the feeling that we haven’t just reached the top of the mountain—we have achieved something deeply essential to ourselves. Our trek takes us along the lovely Marangu route, past stunningly diverse ecosystems bathed in golden light. From the park gate, we cross bamboo rainforest, alpine heather, and "the Saddle", a wide, flat plateau with awe-inspiring views of Kibo and Mawenzi looming overhead. On our summit day, we begin the trek by midnight so we have ample time to reach the top and the best chances of actually doing so. Our non-technical climb is led by a team of superb African guides. Their deep expertise ensure our journey is highly informative, safe and filled with the fun of a challenging adventure.

Yosemite holds a unique place in the heart of all those who explore its trails—this 4-day trip is perfect evidence as to why. Exalted for its magnificence and revered for its challenging trail; an ascent of Half Dome is an unforgettable adventure. The dome, 8,842 feet of granite rock, is the signature landmark of Yosemite National Park. The Sierra Nevada mountain range, clear alpine lakes and meadows carpeted with wildflowers provide the perfect backdrop for our epic backpacking trip. Our knowledgeable, exceptional guides lead the way—sharing Yosemite’s secrets, preparing delicious meals and imparting backpacking wisdom. We travel between five and twelve miles every day, exploring the diversity of the high country and enjoying campfire camaraderie at night. When the sun comes up, we don our packs and hit challenging trails in pursuit of the top of the iconic Half Dome. As we stand upon the summit, looking down on the valley floor below and the sun rising in the distance, we revel in our accomplishments and in the tremendous journey we have completed.

From the valley floor to an iconic summit, experience the heart of Yosemite National Park on a four-day backcountry adventure worthy of your bucket list. Perfect for fit backpackers and women looking for a truly epic Yosemite adventure, this challenging trip takes you from the valley to the summit of Half Dome—8,842 feet of granite and grandeur. Against the backdrop of the Sierra Nevada Mountain Range, we pass through high-country meadows carpeted with wildflowers, listen to waterfalls and chirping chickadees, swim in crystal-clear alpine lakes and marvel at some of America’s most magnificent scenery. Our exceptional female guides lead the way—sharing Yosemite’s secrets, preparing spectacular meals (some of the best you’ve ever had on a camping trip, we promise) and imparting field-tested wisdom on women’s gear and backcountry skills. We travel between five and twelve miles every day, exploring the diversity of the Yosemite backcountry and enjoying campfire camaraderie at night. When the sun comes up, we don our packs and hit challenging trails. On the summit of Half Dome, with the valley floor stretching out beneath us, we revel in our achievement and the beautiful trails our journey has opened up to us.

Step into a realm of raw beauty on this four-day alpine challenge that will inspire and transform you. Perfect for anyone who wants to learn mountaineering fundamentals or energize their life and fitness routine with an epic goal, this trip is a classic climb on a peak that many people hold sacred. After a quick orientation, we head to our first camp on the vaulting, snow-streaked slopes of Mount Shasta. Our enthusiastic expert guides lead us through Snow School, teaching us how to move safely across glaciers and rocky terrain. On day two, we climb to our second camp within a high alpine cirque called Hidden Valley. The cold, pure air focuses our minds for our day three summit attempt. We depart at 2am—an “alpine start”—and climb heavenward beneath a canopy of stars. As we ascend and descend the west face, testing body and mind, we encounter moments of wonder. The rising sun casting Shasta’s shadow on the horizon. Gazing out over the Cascade Range with a deep sense of accomplishment. Glissading gleefully down the mountain’s face. Summit or not, this trip will stay with you forever.

Hone your winter climbing skills with like-minded explorers on this extraordinary 3-day adventure. Towering above us at 6,288', Mount Washington’s peaks are the highest in the White Mountains, and home to incredibly unforgiving weather at higher elevations. With this formidable weather comes great beauty and the thrill of adventure. Our journey takes us through a sparkling winter wonderland, blanketed in crisp, undisturbed snowfall. On this climb we will spend a day brushing up on basic mountaineering skills on a practice attempt on neighboring Mount Willey. Our world-class mountaineering guides teach us crampon techniques, tips for snow and ice travel, ice axe use, self-arrest and navigation. On our final day we push up 3,500' to ascend Mt. Washington itself. As we reach the top, the realization of our accomplishment washes over us. On sunny days, we enjoy crisp views of the surrounding mountains, an unforgettable experience.

Spectacular views, challenging routes and plenty of personal instruction, a 3-day ascent of Mount Shasta’s South Face is an unforgettable achievement. At 14,179 feet, Mt. Shasta is the second highest volcanic peak in the Cascade Range. Physically challenging with stunning scenery along the way, Shasta is a great endeavor for novice and experienced climbers alike. Our South Face route is a classic steep snow climb, with much to offer the beginning mountaineer. We start our ascent around 7,000 feet and traveling up to about 8,000 feet to set-up base camp. Once camp is set up, we begin "Snow School" and cover the basics of ice axe and crampon use, climbing techniques and an introduction to roped travel in preparation for our summit attempt. We ascend the route at a pace that gives us time for plenty of instruction and practice as we make our climb. The mountain's towering summit is the perfect reward after a demanding but fun ascent. Looking for later dates or a more technical route? See our Mount Shasta Climb – North Face trip for another option.

Spend three days learning the finer points of mountaineering on Mount Shasta’s northeastern face. Mt. Shasta, the second highest peak in the Cascade Range, offers stupendous views and the perfect location to learn and practice mountaineering skills. Climbers come here each year for the amazing scenery and challenging peaks, and they are not disappointed. Physically challenging, our summit attempt ascends the northeast face of the mountain, gaining more than 7,000 feet in two days. We camp on the mountain in backcountry basecamp—comfortable accommodations beneath the vast sky. We start our ascent at about 7,000 feet and climb through the day to 9,400 feet. Once we arrive and camp is set up, we take some time to cover the basics of ice axe and crampon use, specific climbing techniques, as well as an introduction to roped travel in preparation for our summit attempt. Our professional guides are expert climbers, leading our ascent up the mountain. A successful summit attempt leaves us full of personal accomplishment, knowledge of mountaineering skills, and new memories with like-minded adventurers. We also offer more departures in the spring and summer via Shasta's South Face.