David Gottlieb

David Gottlieb is a highly experienced alpinist and professional mountain guide with an extensive background in high-altitude mountaineering and technical climbing ascents across the world. Before joining the Alpine Ascents team in 2016, David spent 18 seasons as a Climbing Ranger on Mount Rainier and traveled far and wide accumulating a wealth of experience in mountain rescue, risk management, and technical climbing. In addition to his guiding career, David’s passion for remote and high altitude environments has driven him to complete four first ascents of unclimbed 22,000-foot peaks in the Himalayas, including Kang Nachugo (6,735 meters) and Takargo (6,771 meters).

David’s guiding approach is based on precision, safety, and effective leadership. He is dedicated to mentoring climbers in technical skills and expedition strategy. Whether leading teams on established routes close to home on Mount Rainier, or travelling to guide our Volcanoes of Ecuador and Kilimanjaro expeditions, he brings a measured and professional approach to every ascent, and enough stories from his travels to fill any long day on the trail. When he’s not guiding, David spends his time in the Cascades of North Central Washington enjoying good books, motorcycles, spending time with family, and of course, getting out to climb every chance he gets.

Take 5 with the Guide

If you could only take one album on an expedition?
A Love Supreme – John Coltrane

Most beloved book?
The Treasure of the Sierra Madre – B. Traven

Favorite movie?
Underground – Emir Kusturica

Dream climbing partner for your dream climb?
Mark Westman (secret objective in the Himalaya) 

In another life, I’d…
live in Big Sur California in the 1950s