A fellow climber once invited me to bid for the chance to teach technical climbing to a group of aspiring mountaineers with the Mazamas—a respected nonprofit focused on mentoring outdoor enthusiasts in responsible climbing and stewardship.
Since then, I’ve been honored to share evolving training and safety techniques with their Intermediate and Advanced Rock students, working with 40+ climbers in both indoor and outdoor settings. This ongoing partnership is a highlight of my year and a chance to engage deeply with the climbing community.
One of the best parts about working with the Mazamas is helping keep mentorship alive in an era where climbing’s rapid growth sometimes outpaces education. Indoor climbing gyms have made the sport more accessible, but transitioning to outdoor climbing requires learning not only new technical skills but also outdoor ethics—respect for the environment, fellow climbers, and the unique culture of the crag.
The lessons my own mentors passed on—about stewardship, respect for parks, and sharing space thoughtfully—are values I strive to instill. Teaching students how to mind noise, manage group dynamics, and cultivate a confident mindset often makes a bigger difference than any technique alone. These lessons go beyond what you can find in quick online tutorials.
Spending time face to face with students, sharing this tradition of mentorship, is deeply rewarding. I’m grateful to contribute to their journey and help shape future climbers who are skilled, safe, and responsible.
If you’re looking for climbing coaching in Portland or want to improve your outdoor climbing skills and knowledge of climbing ethics, I’d love to connect. Whether you’re new to climbing or preparing to make the move from gym to crag, I’m here to help you build a strong foundation in both technique and responsible climbing.
Cheers!
