Multi-pitch… For many climbers, multi-pitch is the ultimate realm. A realm that is not simply a physical place; hundreds or even thousands of feet above the ground. For climbers across the world today, and reaching back to climbing’s earliest days in the European Alps, multi-pitch is the domain of limitless adventure, mystery, challenge, and a certain ineffable magic.
Unlock the magic of the vertical world with us. Our Multi-Pitch Sport Climbing Course is designed for climbers ready to go beyond single-pitch and experience putting some serious air under their heels. And since most climbers begin in the gym, then move to outdoor sport routes (bolted climbs), with the hope to climb in legendary venues (like Yosemite and the High Sierra, Italy’s Dolomites, Chamonix in the French Alps, or Patagonia) mastering multi-pitch sport climbing skills is an essential stepping stone. World-famous venues like those mentioned are referred to as “Traditional” aka Trad, and multi-pitch trad requires significantly more technical skill, risk assessment acumen, and equipment.
Although you can certainly find some bolted sport climbs in the legendary venues, no climber dreams of questing to Yosemite to climb bolted sport routes. But the skills required for multi-pitch sport are also fundamental to the much deeper skill set needed for adventurous climbing in stunning locations. For these reasons, becoming fluent in the skills for multi-pitch sport climbing is a rite of passage and mandatory point along the path towards making dreams a reality.
But even if a person’s appetite for adventure was more easily satiated, and they perhaps felt that multi-pitch sport climbing, where available, would be enough, the demand for competence and skill remains, especially if a person plans to take others who are less experienced, and operate as the leader and decision maker.
Set against the striking sandstone formations, sweeping chaparral, and ancient conifer forests of Ojai’s Topa Topa Mountains, our course offers the full and mandatory skillset for multi-pitch sport climbing. Nothing superfluous. Every element of the course directly addresses a particular and absolutely indispensable skill for multi-pitch sport climbing — perfect for climbers, whether local or visiting, who are looking to elevate their game and earn the keys to the magic of high adventure.
What You’ll Learn
Multi-pitch climbing adds an entirely new set of challenges — and rewards. You’ll work directly with an AMGA-certified guide with advanced credentials to develop the technical proficiency and efficient systems required for safe and competent multi-pitch climbing.
Topics include:
• Belay transitions and efficient stance management
• Building and using multi-directional anchors
• Rope systems for 2-person and 3-person teams
• Belaying a second (direct vs redirected)
• Communication strategies across pitches
• Rappelling techniques, backups, and contingency planning
• Self-Rescue
• Time management and route logistics
• What to pack and how to pack it
You’ll climb real multi-pitch routes during the course. By the end of the course, you will lead every pitch on real multi-pitch climbs, putting all your skills into practice in a real-world context.
Who This Course Is For
This course is ideal for:
• Sport climbers with lead experience (5.9+) ready for longer routes
• Trad or sport climbers with single-pitch experience looking to build toward big outdoor objectives
• Partners building skills to eventually climb in venues like Yosemite, Tahquitz, Grand Tetons, the European Alps, or Patagonia.
*Prerequisites: Must be comfortable leading sport routes outdoors (5.9 or harder) and familiar with basic anchor building and cleaning. No trad experience required.*
Why Multi-Pitch?
Climbing multiple pitches isn’t just about going higher — it’s about learning to move through complex terrain with efficiency, confidence, and grace. You’ll learn how to handle real-world climbing scenarios: rope tangle management, on-route problem-solving, and high-stakes communication.
The Ojai and Ventura backcountry offers a fantastic multi-pitch training ground: moderate routes, reliable weather, and stunning backdrops — all within reach of town.
Why Learn With Us
At Ojai Rock Climbing, veteran guide Alex Bury, and his team of AMGA credentialed instructors, are not just certified professionals — they’re seasoned, expert-level multi-pitch climbers with extensive mileage on many of the longest and proudest routes in California and beyond. Our classrooms are real climbs, not just simulations, and we tailor every program to the pace, goals, and comfort level of each individual guest. Expect clear systems, professional coaching, and a huge boost in both confidence and competence.
Course Details
• Location: Multi-pitch sport routes near Ojai (location based on conditions and goals)
• Duration: 3-5 Days, 4-6 hours each. The length of program will depend on several factors such as guest aptitude and prior experience.
• Group Size: Maximum of 2 climbers per guide
• Included: All technical gear — ropes, draws, belay devices, slings, safety equipment
• What to Bring: Harness, helmet, climbing shoes, approach shoes, daypack, water, snacks, layers
Is This Course Right for You?
If you’ve fully developed the single-pitch sport climbing toolkit and want to level up your options for mountain adventure — this is your next step.
It’s also an excellent choice for experienced climbing teams or duos preparing for trips, experienced multi-pitch climbers who are rusty, or anyone who wants a deeper understanding of the systems that keep us safe as we go higher.
Whether you’re building toward your first big wall, or just want a full day of spectacular climbing way off the deck, we’ve got you covered.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to lead trad to take this course?
No — this course is for bolted, sport-style multi-pitch routes. No trad experience is required.
Will we climb a real multi-pitch route?
Yes. We’ll choose a suitable multi-pitch climb based on your experience and the conditions that day.
Can beginners take this course?
This course is best for climbers with lead experience on sport climbs. If you’re newer, check out our ‘single-pitch sport’ or one of our Top Rope programs first.
Elevate Your Game.
Book your Multi-Pitch Sport Climbing Course today and earn the keys to high adventure with expert guidance.
