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FAQ
Can men attend Encompass?
Encompass is a climbing festival that centers women and gender-diverse climbers while welcoming people of all genders who support LCC's mission and values.
That means yes—men are welcome at Encompass! We know that building a more inclusive community takes all of us, and we want Encompass to be a place where friends, partners, family members, and allies can climb, learn, and be part of the community together.
At the same time, LCC exists to create opportunities and spaces that center people who have historically been underrepresented in climbing. We simply ask everyone who attends Encompass to understand the intention of the space: women and gender-diverse climbers are at the center of this festival. Being an ally at Encompass means helping us create a community where those voices, experiences, and accomplishments are celebrated and where everyone treats one another with respect.
You don't need to identify as a woman or gender-diverse person to belong at Encompass—you just need to be excited about climbing, community, and helping us build a more inclusive outdoors.
Can men sign up for clinics?
Many Encompass clinics and activities will be open to participants of all genders, including men. Some clinics or affinity-based programming may be reserved for specific communities as part of LCC's mission to expand access and create intentional spaces for underrepresented climbers.
Eligibility will be clearly identified when you register for a clinic, so you'll always know which opportunities are open to you.
Do I need to be an experienced climber?
Not at all! Encompass is designed for climbers with a wide range of experience levels. Clinics and meetups will include opportunities for newer climbers as well as those looking to build more advanced skills.
Do clinics cost extra?
Clinics have an additional fee. One of LCC's goals for Encompass is to reduce barriers to participation—including cost—so we're working to keep clinic prices as accessible as possible.
Are clinic scholarships available?
Yes! A limited number of clinic scholarships will be available to help reduce financial barriers to participation. Some scholarship opportunities are specifically dedicated to trans and genderqueer climbers. Scholarship information can be found above.
Do I need a climbing partner?
No! One of the best parts of Encompass is meeting new people to climb with. There will be organized meetups and plenty of opportunities to connect with other climbers throughout the weekend.
Will there be vendors and sponsors?
Yes! Encompass is made possible in part through the support of brands, organizations, local businesses, and community partners who believe in LCC's mission. You'll have opportunities throughout the weekend to visit sponsor and vendor booths—including local artists and makers—learn about their work, and connect with organizations supporting the climbing community.
What happens if the weather is bad?
October weather in the Eastern Sierra can very considerably. Festival programming may be adjusted based on weather, climbing conditions, or other safety considerations. We have an indoor space reserved for the festival, but we encourage everyone to come prepared for changing temperatures and conditions.
Will alcohol be available?
Yes. Drinks will be available for purchase at the festival bar during Friday and Saturday evening festivities. Attendees purchasing or consuming alcohol must be 21 or older.
Is Encompass a fundraiser?
Our goal is to make Encompass accessible rather than maximize revenue. We are working to put on the festival as close to cost as possible while keeping registration and programming affordable.
LCC is an entirely volunteer-run organization, and no one on our team is being paid to organize or produce Encompass. Registration fees help cover the actual costs of bringing the festival to life, including the venue, permits, insurance, programming, guides, equipment, and other even expenses.
If there are proceeds remaining after festival expenses, a portion will be donated to the local Tribe in recognition of and gratitude for gathering and climbing on their ancestral lands, the local LCO, and further supporting LCC's nonprofit mission to expand access, opportunity, and community in climbing.
What is happening on Sunday?
Sunday will combine two things that are central to Encompass: community and stewardship. We'll have opportunities to climb together and participate in a stewardship project that gives back to the places that make climbing in Bishop so special.
Will there be food at the festival?
Yes! On Saturday, The Rolling Chef and Coachwhip Cafe food trucks will be onsite beginning at 4:00 p.m. Drinks will also be available at the festival bar on Friday and Saturday evenings.
Bishop has lots of great local restaurants, coffee shops, bakeries, and other food options, and we encourage attendees to support local businesses throughout the weekend.
Where can I stay?
Camping will be available right at the Tri-County Fairgrounds, making it easy to stay close to festival activities.
Bishop also has a variety of hotels, motels, vacation rentals, and hostels. We especially encourage attendees to check out The California Hostel, a climber-owned option popular with climbers and travelers.
Do I need to sign a waiver?
Yes, All participants must review and agree to the Encompass Festival Waiver as part of participation in the festival. Please read the full waiver available on the main event page before completing your registration.
What should I bring?
At minimum, we recommend bringing your climbing gear, comfortable outdoor clothing, layers for changing temperatures, sun protection, plenty of water, snacks, and anything you need for your accommodations or camping setup.
If you're participating in a clinic, we'll let you know about any additional required gear.
I still have a question. Who should I contact?
We'd love to help! Reach out to Kristin at kristin@ladiesclimbingcoalition.com with any questions about registration, accessibility, clinics, volunteering, sponsorship, or attending Encompass.