This amazing weekend will combine the arts of yoga and rock climbing-such perfectly matched activities for strength, balance, flexibility, and mindfulness, with accommodations in the beautiful mountain town of Mammoth Lakes.
After enjoying a hot shower at the campground, you will be minutes from many fine restaurants, shops, and all the great things Mammoth has to offer! This weekend includes two yoga sessions, two days of guided climbing instruction with AMGA guides, two nights of camping under the stars, and all climbing equipment.
FIFTHclass Climbing School will have a group campsite with campfires each night in beautiful campground in Mammoth.
The morning yoga sessions in the forest are nothing short of amazing, with practices specifically designed to enhance your mental focus, awareness, and stretching out all those climbing-specific muscles. It is the best way to prepare yourself for a day of climbing and learning new skills.
You will be divided into groups based on experience level and you will be taken to the crags until late afternoon. Some of the skills covered will include beginner climbing tips and techniques, lead climbing, trad skills, rappelling, building and cleaning anchors, and many more.
You may get in touch with FIFTHclass Climbing School if there is a specific skill you are wanting to learn, and they will try to accommodate you during the weekend.
Sample schedule
Friday
- 16:00 onwards Meet at Mammoth Lakes campsite... there is no specific time, as many of you will be driving to Mammoth this evening. You can also arrive on Saturday morning, just get in touch and your host will work out the details
- Register/sign paperwork - This is a good time to get fitted for climbing shoes, helmets, harnesses and belay devices, should you need any of these items
- Set up your tent/sleeping area
- There is a fire going once it gets dark and will use this time to get to know one another
Saturday and Sunday
- Breakfast
- 08:00 Morning yoga
- Split into groups and go out to the crags! The group will climb most of the day/ have informational and skill seminars
- 16:00 - 17:00 Head back to the campground for dinner, relaxing and fire
Monday
- Breakfast
- Pack up gear/tents
- Head to one of Mammoth's majestic lakes for a longer rejuvenating yoga session and optional acroyoga
- 13:00 Say goodbyes
Trip Protection
This trip will run regardless of the weather conditions. The trips have been chosen based on the area's best potential for good weather. If climbing isn't possible on a given day, the group will find a sheltered area to practice skills or go for a group hike.
Physical Requirements
- Ability to hike over varied 1/2 a mile over varied terrain while carrying a 10 lb backpack
- Must be 18 years of age or older (unless discussed with FIFTHclass Climbing School & Guide Service prior and accompanied by an adult)
Solo Travelers?
The majority of women come to this retreat alone - somewhere around 70%. If you are hesitating to join because you would be coming solo, know that you will not be "alone" and these retreats offer a wonderful sense of community.
Average Age
This retreat generally has a wide range of ages. The average age tends to fall between the ages of 25 to 55. But, there were many participants from the 18-late 60's joined and had a blast.
Never Climbed?
Being a climbing school, teaching someone how to climb safely and confidently is what FIFTHclass Climbing School & Guide Service does best!
Poor Weather?
FIFTHclass Climbing School & Guide Service does their best to choose dates where this won't be an issue, but it's always a possibility. Even more so with the changing climate. If poor weather occurs we will propose alternative activities such as technical skills lessons like anchor building, rappelling, multi-pitch clinics, or hiking. If your worried about the weather ruining your experience, buying "cancel for any reason" trip protection is suggested as there will be no refunds due to weather-related issues.
Lead Climb?
FIFTHclass Climbing School & Guide Service bases their decision on this with fluidity. Their guides will determine whether or not they will allow leading based on participants' prior experience, routes available for leading, and mock leading competency. If this is a skill you want to learn on the retreat, communicate with your guides and they will try to get you some chances to learn the art of leading during the retreat.