About Us
Ground Up Climbing Guides connects people to the thrill of outdoor rock climbing in Mammoth Lakes and beyond.
We specialize in helping new and novice climbers experience outdoor rock climbing, but we don’t stop there. We also challenge more experienced climbers on guided climbs of some of the best sport and multi-pitch climbs that California has to offer.
With years of experience running kids camps and working with families, we know how to make the most of your day, put you on the right terrain, and encourage you to push beyond your preconceived limits and (sometimes!) your comfort zones.
Want to know more about Ground Up? See what our clients have to say about us (more than 100 5-star reviews!)
“Ground Up took us to climb in a place that looked terrifying - and they made it a super safe and a doable challenge! Everyone had a great time!!! Highlight of our trip to the area, highly recommended.”
Who We Are
Clay Tyson | Owner & Lead Guide
Clay has been guiding for 10 years and rock climbing for 20. After running an indoor climbing center for eight years, Clay trained as a climbing guide and started guiding in the Gunks of New York as well as the Sierra in California. He taught skiing at Mammoth Mountain for many years, and recently launched Skin Up Ski Tours. He’s worked with kids, families and adults in a variety of outdoor settings. Clay is AMGA trained and WFR certified.
Forrest Schwab | Lead Guide
Forrest grew up in Marblehead, Massachusetts and has climbed extensively throughout New England. He has been guiding in the Sierra for nine years on both rock and snow. He has run the Mammoth Lakes Climbing Camp with Clay for the past six years, and he has vast experience guiding longer backcountry multi-pitch routes. Forrest is AMGA trained and WFR certified.
Molly Massena
Lead Guide
Originally from Washington, Molly grew up exploring great outdoor spaces of the Pacific Northwest and Canada. Introduced to climbing in 2000 by her father, Molly has continually been climbing from a young age.
From guiding in Seneca Rocks, WV, Joshua Tree, CA, The Eastern Sierras, Washington, and now Japan, Molly has been guiding rock climbing full-time for 9 years and was a ski patroller for 7 years before switching to backcountry ski guiding.