Tristan grew up in the rolling hills of Iowa. A trip to Colorado sparked his interest in the mountains. He moved to Colorado as soon as he could to study outdoor recreation leadership at Colorado Mountain College. After “cutting his teeth” in the Rockies he moved to California to pursue his guiding career.
He has since guided and climbed throughout the US and internationally. In addition to climbing he loves to get into the backcountry on his skis. He currently splits his time between the eastern sierra and Joshua Tree. Tristan is a certified multi pitch guide through the Professional Climbing Guides Institute. He is also a mentor/assessor at the single pitch level and is also on their technical committee. He is also a wilderness first responder. So come climb with Tristan and see how patient and energetic a guide can be!
Trippy’ smile and so always on cue humor will induce the happiest of times and memories, regardless the storm, always!
“Tristan is an excellent mountaineer.” – Client – Mike Schaut
” I can’t say enough about our guide Tristan. The two other members of our group had no climbing experience and Tristan did a great job teaching and being patient with all of us. I hope to get to climb with Tristan and SMI again someday soon. Oh and the food was amazing! I usually lose my appetite at altitude, not possible with chef Tristan!” – Client – Dan Farrell
