Guide recommendations

Hi All,

I'm trying to put together a holiday for some European tourists next year that includes some backcountry skiing in the Cascades. I'm wondering if anyone can recommend a mountain guide(s) who knows Baker really well and also someone who knows Ranier (even better if the same person). Fully qualified and insured only, please. This would be for straight touring / skiing. No backcountry training required.

I'm also potentially looking for a free ride coach to spend a day or two with an adult group to introduce them to / start getting them comfortable with some small free ride moves / jumps.

Thanks
Jeff

I've spent a good chunk of time in the snow with Oyvind and he would be my first phone call to find out if his company can do what you want.  Here's a link: www.northcoastalpineguides.com/about-us.html

AAI is the natural go-to for all things guided in the Bellingham area, they're worth calling to find out if they work on Rainier too.  www.alpineinstitute.com/

John Minier from Mt Baker Mountain Guides is very active in the Baker area.  I've heard mixed reviews from people that have taken avy courses from him but everyone agrees that he's passionate about touring and it looks like he works on Rainier too.  mtbakerguides.com/

Hope this helps.

**Edited to add that the mixed reviews on the avy courses were primarily that the touring aspect of the course was above the experience level of some of the people I know who have taken the course which made it hard to focus on the avalanche education. There was no criticism of the avalanche education on it's own. Based on that I expect anyone actually interested in touring with John would be happy.**

Talk to Martin Volken (425-888-6397) who owns Pro Guiding Service in North Bend. I've done many, many trips with him and have had one positive experience after another. He and his guides are highly trained, extremely competent, and truly care about ensuring their clients are both happy and safe.

Don

Ditto on Martin Volken. He wrote the book, literally.

Also, Olivia and John Race at Northwest Mountain School in Leavenworth are top notch.

www.mountainschool.com/

Ann Keller

I would strongly suggest John Minier and Mt. Baker Mountain Guides. They tour in the area regularly, know the local and current snow conditions, and are a great mix of fun and professional. You won't be disappointed.