multipitch

Multipitch climbing refers to routes that require more than a single rope length to reach the summit. Each distinct section of the route is called a pitch, and climbers pause at belay stations between pitches to belay the next climber or to rest. A multipitch route may be completed in a single day or may require multiple days on longer, remote faces. The leader climbs ahead, places protection or clips to fixed anchors as appropriate, and anchors the rope to belay the follower from above; the follower then ascends the next pitch while the leader belays from the top.

Gear and technique for multipitch climbing emphasize rope management, communication, and protection. Typical equipment includes climbing ropes (commonly 60–70 meters), harnesses, helmets, protection for traditional routes, quickdraws, and a belay device. Good belay techniques and clear calls between partners are essential, as the consequences of a belay error can be severe, especially on long or exposed routes.

Routes in multipitch climbing occur in rock, ice, and mixed environments. On rock, routes can be sport, traditional, or alpine in nature; on ice, routes consist of consecutive ice pitches. Each pitch has its own difficulty rating, and the overall challenge reflects both pitch-by-pitch difficulty and exposure. Planning considerations include daylight, weather, route finding, and potential bivouacs or escape options.

Safety considerations emphasize partner communication, proper anchor and belay procedure, and awareness of changing conditions over the duration of a climb. Multipitch climbing combines endurance, technical skill, and teamwork, ranging from moderate, well-protected alpine routes to long, technically demanding big-wall ascents.