John Sims

John has been climbing since he was first taken to a climbing gym in 2008. Since then he has traveled around the US and Canada climbing and exploring. He enjoys rock and ice climbing, alpine climbing, remote expeditions, and backcountry skiing. In 2021 John took a NOLS instructor course and has been working as a NOLS instructor and pursuing becoming an AMGA guide since then. John currently splits his time between guiding in the PNW and living in Lander WY, where he resides with his partner and 2 dogs.

Take 5 with the Guide

What was your first mountain?
The Cables Route on Longs Peak. I went with my parents and older sister when I was probably 8 or 9

What’s your favorite thing to do when you’re not guiding?
You’ll find me taking photos and rock climbing

What’s always in your snack bag?
I am notorious for not bringing snacks…

If you could be stuck with anyone (past or present) at base camp for a week, who would you choose?
Someone from a drastically different culture than me. I love learning about different cultures and seeing how people from around the world spend down time.

One piece of advice for aspiring mountaineers
Keep your head up and see the views. Hiking up a boot pack is a lot less pleasant if you are just looking at your feet