San Juan Mountain Guides LLC

San Juan Mountain Guides has shaped mountain adventures since 1986, when its original founders helped establish the Ouray Ice Park. Based in Ouray and Durango, Colorado, this family-owned guide service operates across the San Juan Range, Rocky Mountain National Park, Alaska’s Ruth Gorge, and Peru’s Cordillera Blanca. The company offers both open registration courses and custom programs tailored to individual goals, with a strong emphasis on ice climbing, alpine climbs, and ski instruction. All guides hold AMGA or IFMGA certification, ensuring clients work with highly trained professionals. The team also owns the Red Mountain Alpine Lodge on Red Mtn Pass, extending their reach into ski programs and lodging. With operations spanning over 4 million acres of public land, including five national forests and multiple wilderness areas, San Juan Mountain Guides provides personalized instruction for everyone from beginners to advanced athletes. Their locally owned and operated structure allows for deep regional expertise, supported by office staff who manage international expeditions with multilingual senior guides. Whether guiding on classic ice routes in Silverton and Telluride or leading remote alpine climbs, the guides are known for their teaching skills and athletic prowess.