Our Story

Growing up in Lake Tahoe, California, I developed an intrinsic love for outdoor adventure through climbing and skiing. Sport climbing lead into traditional climbing then onto Big-Wall, and finally Alpine. The inspiration to explore the vertical realm lead me to establish over forty first ascents around the world and become an expert in all disciplines. I’ve thankfully gone on to land various accolades, awards, and Feature Film spots. From Forbes Magazine, to The Alpinist Film; from the Arctic Circle to the South Pacific, climbing has taken me around the world. Working with The North Face and organizing expeditions has become a blend of my passion, and my career.

I wanted to share these places I’ve been so fortunate to experience, and I’ve mapped out dream climbing vacations crafted around movement, spectacular wilderness settings, incredible food and culture. Ill be leading these trips alongside my partner Elliott. Once a full-time professional photographer and snowboarder, Elliott brings the same passion and dedication to the vertical world. Having spent years climbing in Yosemite Valley, Elliott has climbed El Capitan over 20 times and put up first ascents around the world. Join us on these once in a lifetime adventures through enchanting villages, incredible cuisine, luxurious hotels, and the best vacation climbing imaginable.

- Brette Harrington

Our Evolving Focus


At Ascent, we’re currently focused on curating private trips designed around the unique dreams and desires of our guests. Each journey is customized to deliver a truly one-of-a-kind experience. If you are interested in a trip to Sardinia, Mallorca, Malta, Southern France, Greece etc please don’t hesitate to reach out.

While we will still release select public trips in the future, our current priority is crafting unforgettable private trips tailored exclusively for you. With this one of one approach we can create the absolute highest quality experiences.

Relax and allow Ascent to design the trip of your dreams.

Brette Harrington & Elliott Bernhagen