The Emeralds

Prime time to climb

Spring
Summer
Fall
Winter

Granite Sport climbing in a beautiful setting

The Emeralds, a hidden gem in California’s Tahoe National Forest, is a beloved sport climbing area with hundreds of routes. Nestled along the scenic South Yuba River, this area boasts a wide range of climbing styles—from moderate slabs to steep, technical faces.

Known for its quiet, wilderness feel, The Emeralds draws climbers with its remote atmosphere and stunning views. With well-bolted routes and plentiful features, it’s a place where climbers can log mileage and improve their skills.

Featured Trips at The Emeralds

Intro To Outdoor Sport Climbing

Outdoor Climbing Day

Other trips at The Emeralds

2-Day Accelerated Self Rescue Course

Intro To Multipitch Climbing

Private Instruction

We're Ready,
Let's Talk

Sign Up, Ask Questions, Get Beta

Contact Form

(916) 299-0711

Send a DM

Shoot us a message

We’ll get back to you ASAP to book your private trip or answer any questions you may have!

Kevin Heinrich

I grew up mostly in the North Eastern US but began traveling and climbing after high school and never looked back. I’ve been lucky to climb in over 10 countries and have done many first ascents on 3 continents. Now I mostly travel in my janky van in the Great American West with occasional trips abroad. I’m surprised to say I’ve been guiding for nearly a decade on rock, ice, mountains, and skis but now mostly focus on delivering highly personalized and precise rock climbing instruction.

It would be fun to list more accomplishments but I truly don’t think that’s what climbing is about. My goal is to be a damn good teacher of the skills people need to prepare for and take on some of the biggest challenges of their lives; not so they can brag about it on Instagram or in a website About page :), but so they learn about themselves, the people around them, and the world we live in.

I’m an AMGA Certified Rock Guide and have some expensive other bits of paper too. I pride myself in thinking hard about the skills I teach and how best to present them to you in a way that’s clear, concise, actionable, and appropriate for your skill level. Above all else I care. I care about you as a human being and hope we can get outside and learn from each other soon!

Professional Certifications
Personal Climbing Resume