HomeClimbingFlying Circus/ Fireworks combo

Flying Circus and Fireworks Combo at Lover's Leap East Wall

South Lake Tahoe,California ,United States
right-facing corner
roof section
multi-pitch
traditional
long runners
Sierra granite
moderate approach
runout sections
Grade: 5.10a
Length: 400 ft
Type: Trad
Stars
Pitches
3
Location
Flying Circus/ Fireworks combo
Aspect
South Facing

Flying Circus/ Fireworks combo

5.10a, Trad

South Lake Tahoe

California ,United States

Overview

"An off-the-radar trad climb at Lover's Leap that slices a bold line through the East Wall’s dramatic corners and roofs. This three-pitch route balances technical moves with solid protection, rewarding those ready to explore classic Sierra granite with a mix of commitment and flow."

Flying Circus and Fireworks Combo at Lover's Leap East Wall

Flying Circus combined with Fireworks offers an outstanding climb along the East Wall’s rugged face at Lover's Leap, a lesser-known classic that challenges minds and muscles alike. Stretching over 400 feet and split into three pitches, this trad route traces a natural fault line that carves a striking path upward. The adventure begins with an approachable 5.6 pitch, sliding you onto a ledge that feels like stepping into a secret stage where rock and sky meet. Here, the wall catches your attention with its towering right-facing corner that commands respect.

Pitch two climbs this sweeping corner that's both a playground and test—a dihedral giving way to a massive roof that looms overhead like a gatekeeper daring you to breach it. This section walks the fine line between technical and bold, at 5.9 and 5.10a, forcing you to marry precise footwork with careful protection placements. A single pin and a stellar #00 TCU become your key allies as you thread through the roof’s stepped vaults. The rock under your hands feels solid but asks for respect, rewarding steady moves and a calm mind.

The final pitch eases into a shallower dihedral before throwing another roof and some intricate moves your way, including a mantle that requires a cleaned hold and a small cam placement. This athlete’s puzzle demands creative gear, especially long runners to manage run-outs and maintain smooth rope management. As the route slants toward a slabby finish peppered with mini roofs, you'll find yourself balancing patience with commitment, navigating the last 20 feet that lean into a gritty, almost intimate summit. The top-out sits roughly 80 feet left of The Line route, offering a satisfying moment of accomplishment and views that remind you why you climb.

Flying Circus and Fireworks rewards preparation as much as skill. A standard rack up to Camalot #3 plus doubles from ½ to 2 ½ inches answers the gear call, but bringing plenty of long runners will smooth your experience through the tricky rack management sections. Though some parts flirt with exposure, this route is more grounded than nearby Fantasia, making it an excellent choice for climbers craving a solid mix of adventure and security.

Located along Highway 50’s corridor near Lake Tahoe, Lover’s Leap is a magnet for those seeking quality trad climbing coupled with a spectacular natural amphitheater carved from granite. The East Wall, with its bold lines and dramatic roofs, offers sustained engagement with rock that feels alive—shaped by wind and water to challenge those willing to listen and respond. Morning light favors this eastern face, warming the rock and setting the tone for focused climbing under clear skies.

Expect to invest an hour or more to reach the base, traversing well-maintained trails that wind through forest patches and offer glimpses of distant mountain foothills. The approach is moderate in difficulty but should be planned with fresh legs and full hydration to tackle the climb efficiently. Descent is straightforward via walk-off or short rappels, though caution is advised as loose rock patches appear near the top-out.

In all, Flying Circus/Fireworks combo crafts an adventure that blends tangible challenge with the kind of flow that sticks with you beyond the climb. It beckons to anyone wanting to explore the East Wall’s character while sharpening trad climbing skills on real rock, under open sky, surrounded by the hum of the Sierra Nevada’s wild heart.

Climber Safety

Watch for loose rock near the top-out and remain vigilant on roof sections where gear can be sparse. The belay after the big roof requires solid placements on steep terrain. Always double-check placements for bomber security, and maintain communication with your partner on exposed pitches.

Route Specifications

Route Details

5.10a
TypeTrad
Pitches3
Length400 feet

Local Tips

Start early to enjoy morning sun warming the east-facing wall.

Bring a helmet, as some loose rock can appear near the top-out.

Long runners are essential to reduce rope drag in roof and corner sections.

Hydrate well before the approach hike, which takes about an hour from the parking area.

Route Rating

Difficulty
5.10a
Quality
Consensus:The 5.10a rating feels true to form, with pitch two presenting the crux—balancing a technical corner with roof moves that require accurate gear placement and footwork. While the route isn't brutally hard, the runouts and roof-breaking moves push the effort beyond a simple technical grade. Compared to local classics like Fantasia, this route is slightly more accessible but equally engaging, making it ideal for experienced trad climbers looking to expand their lead repertoire.

Gear Requirements

A standard rack up to Camalot 3 is advised. Bringing doubles from ½ inch to 2 ½ inch cams and plenty of full-length runners will help manage tricky gear placements and runouts, especially inside roof sections. Don't forget your #00 TCU for a crucial placement on pitch two.

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Tags

right-facing corner
roof section
multi-pitch
traditional
long runners
Sierra granite
moderate approach
runout sections