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Sea Level to 14,000 Feet: How to Acclimatize for California’s Highest Peaks
The Call Someone Has to Answer
Read Mountain Weather Like a Pro: Preparing for Your 14,000-Foot Climb
When the Screen Goes Black: The Lost Art of Basic Map & Compass still Matters
Eyewear For The Mountains
The Question Every Guide Must Answer

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September 2025

      
   SWS Mountain Guides
   246 reviews 
  Write a review     Google    Facebook    Tripadvisor    Yelp  
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
      Posted on Yelp  
   
   Lee A 
 September 14, 2026
 
 
 Verified I took a  1/2-day climbing clinic at Yosemite that nearly scared me off outdoor climbing for good--I'm SO glad I gave it another try! I went to Bear Valley Box Canyon with a couple of friends, and all of us were pretty new to outdoor climbing. We were excited, but definitely nervous. Tim K. made this one of the best adventures of my life. He is extremely knowledgeable--not only about climbing techniques and concepts, but also about climbing history. He kept us safe, comfortable, and laughing until my belly hurt! He was incredibly patient and did a great job of building our confidence throughout the day. Tim definitely lit a fire in me for outdoor climbing. It's a completely different experience from indoor climbing--being outside, surrounded by nature, makes the whole experience feel like an adventure. It was worth every minute, and I can't wait to get back outside and climb again. Highly recommend Tim K. if you're looking for a knowledgeable, safety-conscious, and genuinely fun guide! Climb on!
  
 
     Posted on Yelp  
   
   Emily T 
 September 14, 2026
 
 
 Verified This review is for Tim K, who was our guide for Bear Valley Box Canyon. We went as a group of 3 climbers, and asked for easier routes since we were all beginners who wanted to get a feel for outdoor climbing (we're mostly gym climbers). There were some little snafu's here and there regarding the timing of the activity, but in the end it worked out and Tim was happy to accommodate us even though we booked it during an off-peak period (mid-September). I can't stress the importance of having a good guide especially for beginners, since they can make or break the experience for a newbie. A poor guide can completely destroy the experience and turn a newbie off to climbing entirely. However, Tim was extremely knowledgeable, and happily shared his many years of climbing experience with us. He put all of us at ease, and I did not fear for my safety at any point, which was one of our main goals. We appreciated his coaching, sense of humor, and expertise in Box Canyon. The route was doable yet challenging enough for us advanced beginner gym-climbers. Overall we had a blast, and largely because of Tim's easy-going and comical personality. The next time we're planning a trip in the area, we are definitely contacting Tim again. Thanks Tim, for a wonderful experience!
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Eduardo C 
 September 3, 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. We leveraged SWS Mountain Service for our attempt to summit Mount Shasta. Caleb was outstanding during our booking process, making himself available instantly via email or video call to evacuate any doubt. This gave us confidence in our first team summit attempt. Brede, our guide, was nothing short of amazing. Always available and checking we were comfortable all the time. He quickly understood where we stood as a group and individually and challenged/encouraged us to summit Mount Shasta (which we did). I am glad we used SWS as it allowed us to really enjoy the climbing (not a hike - specially the last part) and not worry with logistics that would take away the pleasure of the experience. Thanks Caleb, Brede and the entire SWS Mountain operations.
  
 
     Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Echiocconi  
 September 2, 2026
 
 
 Verified We summit Mount Shasta thanks for SWS We leveraged SWS Mountain Service for our attempt to summit Mount Shasta. Caleb was outstanding during our booking process, making himself available instantly via email or video call to evacuate any doubt. This gave us confidence in our first team summit attempt. Brede, our guide, was nothing short of amazing. Always available and checking we were comfortable all the time. He quickly understood where we stood as a group and individually and challenged/encouraged us to summit Mount Shasta (which we did). I am glad we used SWS as it allowed us to really enjoy the climbing (not a hike - specially the last part) and not worry with logistics that would take away the pleasure of the experience. Thanks Caleb, Brede and the entire SWS Mountain operations.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   David C 
 September 1, 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. SWS Mountain Guides is a first class organization.   Our guides, Finn and Melina were truly outstanding.  They were professional, caring, attentive and most important fun.  I would book with them again without a second thought.  I fully endorse this outfit.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Dale E 
 July 23, 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. SWS is a flexible and customer focused company. When the Hotlum Glacier climb became a no go SWS guides, Caleb and Simran provided several custom options and worked with me and my son to satisfy out itch for an outdoor adventure. SWS never disappoints.
  
 
     Posted on Yelp  
   
   Rose C 
 July 23, 2026
 
 
 Verified The office  particularly Caleb was very helpful during the booking process. Mountain Guide Finn was friendly, knowledgeable, and patient throughout. I highly recommend SWS.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Ronald K 
 July 10, 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Excellent guides and highly recommend them for anyone wanting to learn about mountaineering.  Highly recommended to use them on Mount Shasta as they prioritize safety.  Booked again for 2027 with SWS Mountain Guides to climb Mount Shasta.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Jason P 
 July 2, 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Absolute experts in the field of mountaineering, and apparently backcountry skiing, and apparently everything involving technical outdoor exploration.
  
 
     Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Javier E 
 June 26, 2026
 
 
 Verified Ascenso al whitney Muy desafiante y demandante Hermosos paisajes y entorno Genial
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Luis M 
 June 10, 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. 
  
 
     Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Go571620  
 June 2, 2026
 
 
 Verified Great ice axe and crampon clinic! We had a great experience with SWS ! We signed up for their Ice Axe and Crampon clinic to learn some basic mountaineering skills. We are experienced hikers and have done some basic hiking in snow with micro spikes but we were preparing specifically to summit Mt Whitney on our own at the end of May via the Mt Whitney Trail, which still has a lot of snow and requires mountaineering fundamentals. Melina was our guide and she was excellent, patient and really helped us feel comfortable learning this new skill set. Learning the basics of walking with crampons, different steps and how to self arrest in different positions are essential skills! Without a doubt Melina’s teaching and this course helped us be successful on our Mt Whitney Summit attempt. And it was truly beautiful to hike a bit into Mt Shasta and spend the day on the mountain learning these skills. I would definitely come back to do a guided Shasta Summit with them in the future!
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Lauren F 
 June 1, 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. This was my second trip with SWS, and once again they exceeded expectations. The guides are incredibly professional, experienced, knowledgeable, and friendly. We felt safe and well-supported throughout the entire climb, and their preparation and leadership helped our team achieve a 100% summit success rate on Mount Shasta. I trust SWS completely and would not hesitate to climb with them again. They consistently provide an exceptional experience and are simply the best in the business.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Nathan B 
 May 27, 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. We did the 2-day avalanche gulch trip on May 23-24, 2026. It was an amazing experience and our guides were super knowledgable, kind and fun! Highly recommend SWS Mountain Guides
  
 
     Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Richard S 
 May 26, 2026
 
 
 Verified SWS Mountain Guides #1!! First, I am 66 years old and a slow trekker. I reviewed several guide sites and, after reading SWS' treks, I chose to email and gather information. Their response to my email was timely and answered all my initial questions. I was unfamiliar with hiking in and around Mt. Shasta.(Previous treks included Mt. Whitney 7x, Lobuche Peak in Nepal and numerous hikes/summits in the Central Sierras. With the limited knowledge, I sent SWS several emails with questions about the accent. I also explained that I was a slow hiker and asked if this would be an issue. Caleb @ STS, responded to all my questions quickly and provided suggestions to prepare for the trek. Caleb was awesome! Not only did Caleb answer questions, he coordinated a boot fitting so I could minimize blisters.(I had a 211 mile trek coming up and was concerned that I would get blisters and would have to deal with them on my upcoming trip.) The day before the trek, Caleb arranged for me to try on different boots that minimized blisters.(Never got a blister.) On our scheduled start day, I met my guide Creighton. He went through my pack to "lighten the load" for our summit trek. I can't say enough how great Creighton was during our trip. He was supportive, positive and accommodating during the entire trip. When I explained my trekking speed, he was able to adjust his lead to meet my speed. Creighton made sure I was comfortable during the entire trek and he had a great knowledge of the mountain. I have used several Guide companies throughout my years and Creighton, by far, was one of the best guides I'd had. Hands down!!! SWS Mountain Guides may be a smaller Guide Company, but in working with them, that's what makes them great. Would I use them again? You bet!!!! Thanks Creighton and Caleb for giving me the opportunity to summit and create great memories!
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Barb E 
 May 21, 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Climbing with SWS is better than climbing with a friend. With SWS you get a new friend that knows the mountain, routes, and has the expertise that keeps you safe.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Ryan  
 May 20, 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Had a wonderful experience! Met multiple guides who were all friendly and went the extra mile to educate us and meet us at our skill level. They made us feel part of the family, clearly evidenced by the presence of multiple repeat clients. I’d book with SWS again in a heartbeat!
  
 
     Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Voyage60676646992  
 May 20, 2026
 
 
 Verified Enthusiastic recommendation for SWS for all skill levels! Had a wonderful experience! Met multiple guides who were all friendly and went the extra mile to educate us and meet us at our skill level. They made us feel part of the family, clearly evidenced by the presence of multiple repeat clients. I’d book with SWS again in a heartbeat!
  
 
     Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Barb E 
 May 20, 2026
 
 
 Verified Friends with expertise Climbing with SWS is better than climbing with a friend. Your guide knows the mountain, does all the admin, route finding, decision making and has the necessary expertise to keep you safe. The best part is you make a new friend.
  
 
     Posted on Yelp  
   
   Ryan R 
 May 20, 2026
 
 
 Verified Had a wonderful experience! Met multiple guides who were all friendly and went the extra mile to educate us and meet us at our skill level. They made us feel part of the family, clearly evidenced by the presence of multiple repeat clients. I'd book with SWS again in a heartbeat!
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Bowman C 
 May 16, 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Great guide, taught us a lot in a day, i think we will be back for a more advanced course
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Kate Q 
 May 6, 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. SWS is a truly professional and caring guiding company. They prepare everyone to have the most safe and fun experience possible. From the gear check before we started climbing to every minute on the mountain, we felt taken care of and pushed to excel. Particularly big recommendation to go with Noah as your guide, if you can!! 11/10 guide and human.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Jose C 
 May 5, 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Excellent courses ! I took the ice axe & snow anchoring clinics, and they are the best classes to introduce you to mountaineering. Learned a lot and the guide Nate, was the best. Looking forward for my next course with the team 🤞🏽
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Gabrielle C 
 April 28, 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Fantastic! I did two 1-day classes with my godsons (ice axe and crampons & snow anchors and roped travel). I took this course 10 years ago, but this was my godsons' first exposure to mountaineering. Our instructor, Finn, was fun and knowledgeable. Everyone had a great time - especially sliding backwards down the hill and self-arresting - and can't wait to come back and climb Shasta. Thank you, Finn and SWS!
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Todd B 
 April 1, 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I love these guys! Second trip with them. This time up Mt. Whitney. Noah is an amazing guide with endless talent and knowledge. Can’t wait for my 3rd experience with SWS  this October.

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Lone Pine, CA. 93545

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