Denali Guide Recommendations

[hilo21]

Hey!

Looking for recommendations for Denali guides for next year. Who did you use? What did you like/dislike? Would you use them again?

Our group has varying levels of experience so we are opting to go the guide route.

Thanks!

[bmcqueen]

The three that you'll see most often up there are Alpine Ascents, RMI and Alaska Mountaineering School. I was with Alpine Ascents my first time on Denali and I've used them a couple other times. They are a great outfit. My first Rainier attempt was through RMI and I used them for Kili - both very positive experiences as well. I haven't used or talked to anyone who has used AMS. RMI's lead guide on Denali, Brent Okita, has a very good summit %, but you'll hear some stories of pretty rough outings to make that happen sometimes.

[SteveVM]

I agree with the previous recommendation. I know the owners of Alpine Ascents and RMI and they do a wonderful job. Although I have not personally used guides for climbing in Alaska, I have seen how they operate during my previous Denali climbs. Safety is always a top priority with the three guide companies mentioned.

[Fletch Lives]

I can't recommend American Alpine Institute enough (http://www.alpineinstitute.com/). Many of the park rangers are ex AAI guides and Alpine Ascents was started by an ex AAI guide. I believe them to be the gold standard, but that's only one mans opinion. I've been to Alaska, Peru, Red Rocks, and Baker (often times, technical & alpine climbing) with them and am pleased every time. Consider a Denali prep course in the Ruth Gorge area if it's your first time in Alaska... have fun and be safe.