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California
California Programs
In California, American Alpine Institute holds permits to operate in the Eastern Sierra Nevada, including Mount Whitney, the highest peak in the contiguous United States, and in Joshua Tree National Park. Together with Red Rock, Nevada, these areas form the core of our Southwest Campus, where we offer our entire climbing curriculum with the sole exception of more advanced glacier travel, which requires larger glaciers than those found in the Sierra.
Outdoor Rock Climbing – Intensive Introduction
If you’re new to rock climbing or have only climbed indoors, stepping outside opens up a whole new world of adventure. Outdoor climbing introduces unique physical and mental challenges that … Read more
Learn to Lead – Trad Rock Climbing Leadership
Our Learn to Lead – Introduction to Traditional Rock Leadership Course gives you the skills and confidence to lead your own single-pitch trad climbs. You’ll practice gear placement, anchor building, … Read more
Women’s Climbing & Mountaineering Programs
AAI is proud to offer a variety of women’s climbing and mountaineering programs, including women’s rock climbing clinics, mountaineering courses, and guided summit climbs. All-women courses offer a powerful opportunity for … Read more
Mt. Whitney Climb
Mt. Whitney is the highest point in the lower 48 states and the crown jewel of California’s Sierra Nevada. Climbing Mt. Whitney lets you experience one of America’s most beautiful … Read more
Winter Mountaineering Course
Winter mountaineering encompasses one of the most aesthetic and rewarding facets of the sport of climbing. Winter mountaineering has as much to do with mental challenge as it does with … Read more
Technical Self-Rescue for Climbers
Even experienced climbers can face unexpected challenges on the rock. Your partner may get stuck mid-route, a novice climber may freeze halfway up a toprope, or an injury could make … Read more
Guided Rock Climbing at Joshua Tree, CA
Joshua Tree National Park is a classic winter retreat for rock climbers of all levels. The colors, the plant-life, the animals and the rock in this unique 4,000-foot plateau at … Read more
Guided Alpine Climbing in the Sierra
Whether you want technical skills practice, a 14,000 foot summit, or a classic alpine route, the Eastern Sierra offers it all. By booking private guided climbing, our guides meet you … Read more
The Palisade Traverse
This is one of the most classic routes in the Eastern Sierra, and one of the very best ridge traverses on the planet. With a highpoint over 14,000 feet and … Read more
AMGA Single-Pitch Instructor Course and Exam
Single Pitch Instructor Certification The American Mountain Guides Association (AMGA) Single Pitch Instructor Course is the first in the AMGA sequence of climbing instructor and guide training programs. The SPI … Read more
Sierra Alpine Ice Climbing
This program runs primarily on a private basis, and is somewhat conditions-dependent. The Eastern Sierra is famous for its golden granite, but it is equally famous for its steep and … Read more
Ice Climbing – Introduction
Ice climbing is a vital part of any alpine climber’s quiver of skills. Over the last three decades, advancements in equipment and clothing have made the sport much more accessible … Read more
Leave No Trace Level 1 Instructor Course
Every time we step into the backcountry we have an impact. We walk on terrain that may be changed by our method of travel. We build fires and go to … Read more
Leave No Trace Level 2 Instructor Course
Every time we step into the backcountry we have an impact. We walk on terrain that may be changed by our method of travel. We build fires and go to … Read more
Alpine Rock Climbing
The most beautiful rock on the planet is that which is found on the high spires and jagged peaks of the great ranges of the world. The aesthetics of alpine … Read more
Guided Ice Climbing in the Eastern Sierra
As the Summer fades and Fall’s crisp temperatures begin to turn cold, ice climbers around the nation begin to think about tall, shaded walls of hard water ice. With dozens … Read more
Mountain Programs for Youth Organizations
Research shows that adventure education has an incredibly positive impact on children and youth. These types of experiences increase confidence, encourage cooperation, enhance communication skills, build self-reliance, strengthen friendships and … Read more
Backcountry Skiing – Advanced
This immersive two-day backcountry skiing clinic is designed for experienced skiers and splitboarders who want to go beyond the basics and push deeper into the wilderness. You’ll refine your touring … Read more
Rigging for Film, Television and Photography
Mountain environments are perhaps one of the most difficult and dangerous places that a production team can possibly work in. There is constant risk associated with this type of work. … Read more
Military and Government Mountain Training
Military, law enforcement and other government agents are often required to work in “high-end” mountain terrain to achieve their tactical objectives. These settings may require technical rock climbing, glacier mountaineering, … Read more
California Fourteeners Climbs
We’ve put together a list of the fifteen peaks in California that break the fourteen thousand foot barrier. Climbing routes on these peaks are varied and cater to a wide … Read more
Avalanche Awareness Seminars
You hear a loud WHOOMPH! That’s usually how it starts. Then you see it. A spider-web of fracture lines shoot out around your skis. And before you know it, the … Read more
Warrior’s Way Trad and Mental Training
A lead climber silhouetted against a deep blue sky in Joshua Tree. Ian Mceleney. The Warrior’s Way Trad and Mental Training program is an intensive 2-day private coaching session designed … Read more
