Mike Pond

Mike Pond has been guiding for 12 years, which has taken him throughout the Western US, Alaska, and South America, and is delighted to call the Sierra the home range. He lives in Renoand travels down to climb and ski in the Eastern Sierra as much as he can, and is getting to know Hwy 395 very well by now!

Mike grew up in New York State, where he learned to climb and ski while getting his Bachelor’s degree in Expeditionary Studies in the Adirondack Mountains. He also has a Master’s degree in Recreation Studies, in which his research thesis “Investigating Climbing as a Spiritual Experience” brought a deeper perspective to the motivations and outcomes of spending time in the mountains.

Mike is a well-rounded climber, comfortable and passionate about all types of climbing, from single-pitch cragging days, to long technical alpine routes and expeditions. He has established first ascents in the High Sierra, Cascades, Alaska, and BC Coast range, and is currently working his way through the innumerable classic routes of the Sierra. Which is fun homework!

Mike is an AMGA certified Rock Guide and apprentice Alpine Guide.