After climbing Mt Rainier with Rich I jumped at the chance to join him in Ecuador. The program was well balanced, organized, and had a great mix of mountaineering and local Ecuadorian culture. The huts and Haciendas were more than comfortable and we ate like kings for two weeks straight. Rich’s vast experience always made me feel safe, the acclimatization strategy, in my opinion, led to success on each volcano we attempted. This was an amazing and personally rewarding trip! I would highly recommend climbing with Rich.

Rich is one of those rare guides who brings the whole package: total competence and backcountry skill set combined with a super encouraging and grounded attitude toward helping clients achieve their personal best. He knows the importance of giving back to the outdoor community and of taking care of the places we play. And he definitely knows where to find the goods. All of us at Winter Wildlands Alliance are stoked to work with Rich.

In May 2009 I joined Rich on a 5 day Denali Preparation course on Mount Shasta. This was one of the most enjoyable climbs I’ve undertaken, and also one of the most informative. I experienced pulling a sled and carrying a pretty hefty backpack, while snowshoeing our way up to Horse camp and then into Hidden Valley. All the while Rich provided us with great training on snow camping, crevasse rescue and glacier travel. Rich demonstrated a vast knowledge of mountaineering and gave great tips generously. The camps were well organized and the guides made every effort to provide us with delicious food. On summit day the climb was well paced and I always felt in safe hands roped up with Rich. We had spectacular weather going up the west face and I would definitely do this climb or any climb again with Rich. Overall this was a great expedition.