Philip Straub

After growing up in New England, Phil has spent the last 16 years pursuing life in the mountains. In that time, he has lived in Montana, Arizona, Alaska, Colorado, California, Argentina and now Washington, learning as much about his local mountain ranges as possible through backcountry travel, mountain guiding and scientific research. He worked for 7 years with Prescott College instructing avalanche and alpine climbing courses and has taught for avalanche centers and schools around the West. He has also done extensive research in the mountains, focusing on snow science, meteorology and snow hydrology. These days you’ll find Phil seeking out fresh ski lines, splitter cracks, or pouring over weather models trying his best to negotiate with the atmosphere.

Take 5 with the Guide

Favorite childhood breakfast cereal
Grape nuts. Seriously.

What was your first mountain? When did you climb it? Who were you with?
Probably Mount Washington with my dad when I was just a wee lad

Dream rope team / climbing partner for your dream climb?
Gym climbing with Bill Murray

When you’re not guiding?
Picnics and punk music

Most people don’t know that…
I’ve been struck by lightning 2.5 times