There are moments on every climb of Mount Shasta when you should stop looking at what is above you and start looking down. Not at your feet necessarily, but at the remarkable tapestry of life on the ground that somehow thrives on the flanks of California's...
Blog Archive Month: June 2026
California Mountain Guides Blog Archive
The Life of a Snowflake
Last winter, while in Shasta one morning before an avalanche course I was instructing had started for the day. I found myself standing alone in the Castle Lake parking lot waiting for the sun to come up. It wasn't a particularly remarkable day. It wasn't the beginning...
Plastic to Granite: Challenges of Transitioning from the Climbing Gym to Outdoor Rock Climbing
Over the past two decades, climbing gyms have transformed the sport. More people than ever are discovering climbing through brightly colored holds, padded floors, and professionally set routes. The gym has become the gateway to climbing, introducing thousands of new...
Fitting a Mountaineering Boot: Boot-fitter Tips for Preventing Blisters, Dialing Sizing & Getting the Perfect Fit
All mountaineers, guides, and alpine enthusiasts know the importance of the proper footwear. Having the correct boot for the job is crucial, although the experienced climbers know all too well that the fit of the boot can spell the difference between a successful...
WEAR YOUR D$%N HELMET!
While climbing Mount Shasta is an unforgettable experience, it is also a serious alpine objective where safety should always come first. Having the proper equipment is essential and one of the most important pieces of gear every climber...