the Novice:

One who has never carried a backpack weighing over 20 lbs, has only read stories about mountain climbing, and is looking into buying their first pair of hiking boots.  Their definition of a “good workout” is when they are forced to park more than 200 yards away from the mall entrance.

The trips we offer are probably not what you are ready for, but do not be discouraged.  Please, buy those boots, go for a hike and then check back after

a few hikes & adventures on your own.  Contact us to inquire what would be a good first step for you.

Beginner Climber:

One who is interested in climbing uphill on glaciated terrain and rocky slopes.  Although the slopes can be steep, the slope angle will not be steeper than 40 degrees.

This might be your first time to wear crampons or be roped to someone on a glacier, but it should not be the first time to put on a big backpack or hike

for long distances.

Climbers in this category enjoy: Pushing it hard on a hike, camping, and discovering what’s just over the next hill.  They might not have the time to get out into the mountains as much as they would like.

Intermediate Climber:

One who is interested in everything the beginner climber is going to do,

but with the added thrill of climbing possible ice sections on steeper slopes or possible steep rock climbing sections.  They are also eager to do longer days of climbing, and descents that could be time consuming.

Climbers in this category enjoy: Big mountains, can rock climb 5.7/5.8, maybe have never ice climbed but it looks fun to try, and are wanting to learn more about climbing.

Advanced Climber:

One who has done most of the climbs in the other categories and is now longing for something more.  You are looking for climbs that are continually steep and many times totally committing.  The margin for error is slim and the need to move quickly is pressing.

Climbers in this category enjoy: Rock climbing 5.9 or harder, Ice climbing water-ice III+, and sleeping close to their climbing partner because the sleeping bag was,“too heavy.”

Everyone who climbs with us: *Loves being outdoors and seeing new things. *They want to invest their vacation time doing activities that will challenge them physically.  *They wish to get into the mountains more than they have been able to, and therefore see the value in a professional mountain guide to increase their margin of safety as they tackle a mountain objective they would not feel comfortable on without a guide.  *Once back in their offices, they look at the photos from the experience and it makes them smile.

Celebration on ‘The Prow’ after climbing Snake Dike 5.7    Half Dome, Yosemite CA