About
Dan grew up in the powder-starved wasteland of Southern California, where nobody owns a snowmobile but seemingly everybody owns a convertible and tiny dog. Fortunately, his parents had better sense than that, as well as an old A-frame ski cabin in the Sierra Nevada’s where his dad taught him to ski by abandoning him atop runs far beyond a 3-year old’s capabilities. After surviving this trial by fire, Dan attended the University of California, Berkeley for college where he learned to rock climb and ski tour. It was during this time that any semblance of a straight-and-narrow career path was lost.
Dan completed a Master of Science at the University of Utah, writing a thesis on the relationship between climbing, environmental advocacy, and climate change. He promptly moved to Colorado and dove into the American Mountain Guides Association certification process and continued his avalanche education through the American Institute of Avalanche Research and Education.
He works as a climbing and mountaineering guide with Kent Mountain Adventure Center in Estes Park, had guided skiing and snowshoeing and taught alpine skiing in Aspen, and is extremely excited to begin his first season with Steamboat Powdercats. Dan has completed the AMGA Rock Guide Course, the AIARE Pro 1, and will be completing his AMGA Alpine Guide Course in the spring. For Dan, the best part of guiding and instructing others is enabling more people to safely experience the joys of the mountains.
When he is not on the job making hippie turns in the Steamboat backcountry, Dan can be found getting the screaming barfies ice climbing, consuming potentially unhealthy amounts of coffee, and passing you on the skintrack.
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Trips
Backcountry Ski and Splitboard Touring
Backcountry ski and splitboard touring is now one of the fastest-growing activities in the winter snow sports industry. As the technology of climbing skins, AT, randonee gear, and splitboards have evolved, the world of uphill skinning and hiking to earn your powder turns has become more and more popular. Come join us to see for yourself why backcountry ski and splitboarding is becoming such a cherished experience.
Our human powered tours are a great escape from the crowds you may find at ski areas or other popular areas. All of these tours are private, where we work with 1 trip leader, and are limited to up to 4 guests with a single guide. If you are bringing more than 4 people, we would add in an additional guide to the group.
This is a very custom experience, one that we will refine with you to maximize whatever your ability level, fitness, or past backcountry skills may be. From the never ever backcountry skier to the more advanced, we will set a custom tour plan with you and work to achieve your goals with this experience.
During the day, we utilize a snowmobile or even a snowcat to bump you and your crew up into the terrain. Once up high, we park the machine and carry out the day earning our turns. Depending on experience and fitness levels we we will take 3-6 runs, transitioning from ski to hike mode many times, averaging 1500-3000 feet of ascent during the day.
Seasonality
Jan-Feb
Dec
Buffalo Pass Multi-terrain Cat Skiing
Ready for a day on the slopes that’ll leave you breathless? Join us for an unforgettable adventure at Buffalo Pass, where you’ll hit up to 16 exhilarating runs between altitudes of 8,000–14,000 vertical feet—all while being guided by our expert team. Our heated snowcats can take you to any terrain—whether you’re an intermediate, advanced, or expert rider—ensuring you tackle runs that match your ability.
Fuel your day with a light breakfast and hot beverages, plus a delicious catered lunch—whether at our cozy cabin or in the snowcat itself, then hit the powder with our top-notch Armada Locator skis and Never Summer snowboards, complete with essential avalanche safety gear.
Snap stunning memories with our on-the-go photographer capturing your epic runs—choose just a few images or download the entire gallery. After an action-packed day, unwind at our post-trip party, sharing stories of your epic descents.
With Buffalo Pass boasting some of Colorado’s deepest snow, you’re guaranteed fresh tracks and unforgettable powder.
Seasonality
Jan-Mar
Dec
Overnight Alpine Summits in Teton Range
While the Grand Teton is by far the most known Peak in the Tetons, this range has a number of objectives that are equally as spectacular. Whether it be the East Ridge of Mt. Owen, the East Face Buck Mountain or the Southwest Couloir of the Middle Teton, Jackson Hole Mountain Guides, can design an overnight climb that will accommodate any goal or skill level.
SOUTHWEST COULOIR 12,804′ II, 3RD CLASS
Once the snow has melted out of the Southwest Couloir the climb to the summit becomes mostly a scramble with a few climbing moves here and there. The approach to the Southwest Couloir is long and arduous. We recommend most parties consider making an overnight of the climb and make a camp in the South Fork. Until the beginning of July this route offers steep snow climbing and great views of the Tetons. The climbing itself is not difficult but the day is long and the slopes exposed. We require participants have a snow class or equivalent experience.
NORTHWEST COULOIR – 12,514′, 4TH CLASS
Most people combine the South Teton with an ascent of the Middle Teton. The approach is long and arduous so one might as well sit on two summits for the work involved. We highly recommend that you consider camping in the South Fork of Garnet Canyon and make the asent of both these great peaks an overnight affair. Be advised that early season snow may require a snow class or equivalent experience.
SOUTHEAST RIDGE – 11,938’ II, 4TH CLASS
Buck Mountain’s Southeast Ridge is one of the better easy technical routes to a major Teton summit. Although not particularly difficult, it is a fine example of classic Teton mountaineering. The approach is via Stewart Draw past Timberline Lake and requires snow climbing skills until mid-season. Buck Mountain is usually done either as a long day climb or as a comfortable two-day trip. The campsite is in the timber in a boulder-scattered basin 2500 feet above the valley floor. We particularly recommend the two-day trip as a great introduction to Teton climbing for entry-level climbers, for those with families, and for those seeking a less-strenuous trip.
EAST FACE AND RIDGE- BUCK MTN 11,938’ II, 4TH CLASS
Buck Mtn is the southern-most of the big granite Teton peaks. It is usually approached via the Stewart Draw and is much less traveled than the central peaks. The East Face, rising above Timberline Lake, is a straightforward snow climb in early and mid-season. A favorite alternate route is the adjacent East Ridge, a scenic technical climb combining snow with easy rock. It’s a great place for acquiring moutaineering experience in a spectacular setting. Buck Mtn is usually done either as a long day climb or as a comfortable two-day trip. The campsite is in the timber in a boulder-scattered basin 2500 feet above the valley floor. We particularly recommend the two-day trip as a great introduction to Teton climbing for entry-level climbers, for those with families, and for those seeking a less-strenuous trip.
KOVEN/EAST RIDGE – MT OWEN 12,928’ II, 5.4-5.6
Mt Owen is second only to the Grand Teton in elevation and many consider it to be a more difficult peak. Two rewarding routes, the Koven and the East Ridge, offer the moderately experienced climber the best in classic mountaineering. Because the routes are the same up to the summit formation, they are included together. The East Ridge tackles Mt. Owen’s summit via rock that is a bit more challenging than the line the Koven Route follows to the top. Snow climbing skills are required for much of the season to negotiate steep snowfields and couloirs. The routes enter the fascinating cirque of the Teton Glacier and the views of the North Face of the Grand are very impressive. Mt Owen is ascended on a three-day trip with a camp carried high into Glacier Gulch. The second day is usually long and strenuous; a second night at camp is not required before descending.
Seasonality
Jun-Aug
Grand Teton National Park Rock Climbing
Fasten your seat belts for a full day of climbing in beautiful Grand Teton National Park or Curtis Canyon behind the Elk refuge. Our high quality guides will make your day on the rocks informative, exciting and enjoyable . . . and you can’t beat the location!
All technical equipment is included. Guests are responsible for their own clothing and footwear. Rock shoes or mountain boots are available for rent.
A full day of rock climbing. This is a great option for folks looking to try rock climbing for the first time, or people who have not climbed in some time and are looking to refresh their skills. Routes range in difficulty from 5.4 to 5.11.
Seasonality
Jun-Aug
Wind River Backcountry Rock
Jackson Hole Mountain Guides have been climbing in the Winds for decades, and have racked up an impressive list of ascents of many of their finest routes. Some of the best alpine rock and ice climbing in the United States is found in the Wind River Mountains. Backpacking, day hiking, and fishing are also pursuits to be enjoyed here. If you are looking for amazing granite, spectacular views and no crowds? Then this adventure is made for you.
5 - DAY HAYSTACK MOUNTAIN
5 - DAY HAYSTACK MOUNTAIN
This trip starts by heading to the Big Sandy Trailhead near the southern end of the Winds. A half day hike gets you to the base of Haystack Mountain (11,978′), an ideal location for multi-pitch climbing on clean granite in a spectacular wilderness setting. Other nearby peaks such as Steeple Peak, (12,040′), East Temple Peak (12,600′) and Sundance Pinnacle (11,081′) offer some beautiful routes and summits.
The area around Haystack is surrounded by miles of wilderness hiking, and there is fishing in the nearby streams and lakes. This is the perfect location for family trips with activities for everyone.
The first day we’ll get to the roadhead in mid to late morning. The hike in from Big Sandy trailhead to Big Sandy Lake is a pleasant 5.5 mile trail with only 600’ of elevation gain. At the lake we will head south to the Deep Lake area near Haystack Mountain. The trails steepen en route to a campsite near timberline.
The following days will be spent ascending peaks and climbing; with the vast variety of routes available, you and your guide will find climbs to match your goals and ability level.
The last day it’s possible to climb a few pitches in the morning, or simply head directly back down the trail to the roadhead.
5- DAY CIRQUE OF THE TOWERS
A few hours beyond Haystack Mountain and over Big Sandy Pass is the Cirque of the Towers, which contains the largest concentration of high-quality climbing routes in the Wind Rivers. Amongst the many fine climbs are two of the legendary 50 Classics in North America: the East Ridge of Wolf’s Head (II, 5.5) and the Northeast face of Pingora (IV, 5.8).
5- DAY CIRQUE OF THE TOWERS
A few hours beyond Haystack Mountain and over Big Sandy Pass is the Cirque of the Towers, which contains the largest concentration of high-quality climbing routes in the Wind Rivers. Amongst the many fine climbs are two of the legendary 50 Classics in North America: the East Ridge of Wolf’s Head (II, 5.5) and the Northeast face of Pingora (IV, 5.8).
Whether you wish to simply experience some of the finest wilderness rock climbing in America or you want to concentrate on improving your climbing skills, the Cirque of the Towers is an ideal location that has drawn climbers from around the world for decades.
The itinerary is similar to the five-day course, but on the hike in, we will turn north at Big Sandy Lake and travel three miles north to the Cirque of Towers, camping in the Lonesome Lake area.
Seasonality
Jun-Nov
Single Day Teton Alpine Summit
The Tetons host a range of moderate to difficult mountain summits that can be reached in a long day. These climbs represent a variety of difficulties and experiences, but all are classic. If you are interested in climbing a non-technical peak in a day, try one of these!
While some of the high peaks can be climbed in a day, remember that the rather lengthy approaches make turning these climbs into an overnight adventure a good option.
Surprise Pinnacle
Some say that the view from the top of Surprise Pinnacle is one of the most spectacular in Grand Teton National Park. This moderately strenuous adventure is for those who want to get off the beaten path, and experience the beauty of the Tetons without the demanding fifth class climbing of the Grand Teton.
Cube Point
Surprise Pinnacle
Some say that the view from the top of Surprise Pinnacle is one of the most spectacular in Grand Teton National Park. This moderately strenuous adventure is for those who want to get off the beaten path, and experience the beauty of the Tetons without the demanding fifth class climbing of the Grand Teton.
Cube Point
CUBE POINT 9,920+’ II, 4TH CLASS
This small peak, perched on a ridge above Jenny Lake, is one of the very best for those new to mountaineering. It offers a bit of everything: hiking, scrambling, early season snow, and an easy technical ridge to an exciting summit. The views are unsurpassed. A full day is required but it is much less energy-intensive than most of the one-day Teton climbs. This route, named the Northwest Ridge, is our favorite for those who have taken a basic school and want to sample a technical summit.
Disappointment Peak
SOUTHEAST RIDGE – 11,618’ II, 4TH CLASS
Disappointment Peak has something for everyone. The Southeast Ridge of Disappointment Peak is a pleasant one-day climb with little technical difficulty. Approached via the scenic Amphitheater Lake trail, the route offers great views throughout the day. While a rope is taken for a few tricky spots, the roped climbing ends well below the summit. Along with Surprise Pinnacle, summit of Disappointment Peak has probably the best views of any Teton peak. For something more technical, consider the East Ridge.
Disappointment Peak
SOUTHEAST RIDGE – 11,618’ II, 4TH CLASS
Disappointment Peak has something for everyone. The Southeast Ridge of Disappointment Peak is a pleasant one-day climb with little technical difficulty. Approached via the scenic Amphitheater Lake trail, the route offers great views throughout the day. While a rope is taken for a few tricky spots, the roped climbing ends well below the summit. Along with Surprise Pinnacle, summit of Disappointment Peak has probably the best views of any Teton peak. For something more technical, consider the East Ridge.
Seasonality
Jun-Aug
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