At Alpenglow Expeditions, we believe that if you grow up in Tahoe, you should have the chance to experience climbing in the mountains that surround you. Climbing teaches kids how to move confidently through the world — not just on rock, but in life. It’s about learning to trust yourself, solve problems, and stay focused, all while having fun outside.
Yet for a lot of Tahoe families, getting into climbing isn’t always easy. You might not have the gear, the knowledge, or someone to show you the ropes (literally). That’s why we’re committed to creating ways for local kids to get out and climb safely — whether it’s on the Tahoe Via Ferrata, a perfect first step for beginners, or up at Donner Summit, one of the best climbing areas in California.
Climbing Builds More Than Muscle
Sure, climbing makes you strong, but what we love most is how much it builds confidence. Kids learn to trust themselves — how to keep going when they’re scared, how to think through a problem, and how to rely on a partner. Those lessons stick long after the ropes are packed away.
We’ve seen it firsthand. A nervous kid steps up to a rock wall for the first time, unsure if they can do it. An hour later, they’re at the top, beaming, after doing something they never thought possible. That’s the power of climbing — and we want more Tahoe kids to have that moment.
Two Great Ways to Get Local Kids Climbing
1. Tahoe Via Ferrata
Our Via Ferrata is a guided climbing route on the iconic Tram Face at Palisades Tahoe. It’s fully protected with a steel cable system, so any kid age 10 and up can safely experience the thrill of moving through steep terrain — with professional guides helping every step of the way. For kids and families who have never climbed before, it’s a fun, accessible way to start.
2. Donner Summit Climbing Days
For kids ready to try real outdoor rock climbing, Donner Summit is the perfect classroom. These days focus on learning climbing basics, safety, knots, and technique, all in a supportive, low-pressure environment. Whether it’s their first time tying in, or they’ve climbed indoors and want to take it outside, we meet kids where they’re at and help them grow.
This summer, we’re excited to keep pushing our 5-day kids’ climbing camps, where kids will split time between the Via Ferrata and local crags in the area, like Donner Summit. They’ll get to climb, laugh, and learn alongside other local kids, led by our expert guides.
We also know summer schedules can get hectic, so we offer drop-in days — if a full camp isn’t possible, kids can come climb for just a day or two.
How We’re Supporting Local Families
Our goal is to make climbing more accessible for Tahoe kids, and that includes working with local schools, youth groups, and organizations to create opportunities for those who might not otherwise get the chance. If you’re part of a group that serves local kids — or a parent trying to figure out how to get your child involved — we’d love to talk.
Want to Climb Together as a Family?
Sometimes it’s not just the kids who want to climb — and we totally get that! We offer private family climbing days and adult clinics for those who want to learn the skills to climb outdoors on their own. If you’re looking for something the whole family can do together, the Via Ferrata is a great shared adventure.
Let’s Get Tahoe Kids on the Wall
We’ve heard from a lot of families asking about discounts for our Kids Rock Camp this summer, and we’re excited to announce a special promotion for local kiddos! From March 14 to March 31, families who live within 35 miles of Olympic Valley can receive $100 off camp registration by using the code LOCALKIDSROCK2025 at checkout. If you prefer to book over the phone, just mention the code and we’ll confirm your zip code to apply the discount. Already signed up? No problem—if you qualify as a local, give us a call and we’ll apply the discount to your existing booking. We’re stoked to get your kids climbing with us this summer!
At the end of the day, climbing makes kids stronger, braver, and more connected to the place they live. In a world full of screens and distractions, we think it’s one of the best ways to spend a day.
📧 info@alpenglowexpeditions.com
📞 877-873-5376
Because every Tahoe kid should know what it feels like to reach the top of a climb.
