Willard Mountain Guides LLC

Huge shoutout to our guide Luke for an incredible day on the ice. The whole experience was very structured, supportive, and we gained so much fun. Really recommended for someone who loves trying new things or level up their skills.

Me and a few friends did a sport multipitch clinic with John as our guide. Even though I had done an intro to multipitch last year, I still learned a ton of new things this year! He was excellent at balancing teaching new concepts to my two other friends while also making it interesting for me and reviewing concepts I felt more shaky on. Highly recommend John and Willard guides if you are looking for a patient but really knowledgeable people!

I went on a one on one ice climbing right before the season ended in March, with Willard Mountain Guides. I was paired up with Owen as my guide and had the most amazing time. Owen was super approachable, knowledgeable and i felt safe the entire time. Owen really customized the experience to what I wanted to learn and do for the day. He created a great comfortable atmosphere and answered all my questions about anchors and provided tips from climbing to how to store my snacks efficiently. It was an amazing day in good company that far exceeded my expectation and erased any anxiety about ice climbing for the first time and I can’t wait to ice climb some more next season. Already eyeing my next experience with Williard Mountain Guides and wouldn’t hesitate to choose them again!

Finished a day if Ice Climbing and a 2 day Mt.Washington tour and summit. Being versed in the outdoors, I was amazed at what I was still missing. World Class guide service who truly cares about your experience, safety, and fun! We did climbs I never thought I'd have the opportunity to experience. From beginners to experienced climbers, Willard Mountain Guides offers it all... all year long! If you're looking for an intro, a refresher, or to take your craft further, this is the spot. Highly recommended for anyone looking for an amazing experience. Capable of accommodating terrain with all ability. A+ service and we will absolutely book again. Happy Climbing and bring a camera!

John was an invaluable resource for all aspects of our experience in the White Mountains this past weekend. From start to finish, he was a constant source of knowledge and motivation. During our ascent of Mt. Washington, John freely offered technical advice and words of encouragement while leading my friend and I, and supplied essential mountaineering equipment as part of a very modest package deal. The next day, we went ice climbing at a picturesque location, and made the nervousness I had as a first time climber quickly dissipate as he showed me the ropes of the sport. On top of all that, he is a genuine dude with altruism as a core feature in the plans of his growing business (even beyond donating 5% of what we paid to a charity of our selection). Overall a fantastic experience, and I hope to return next winter for more adventures with John!

My experience with Willard Mountain Guides was incredible. This was my first ice climb, and our guide John made sure I felt comfortable and safe every step of the way. He was extremely knowledgeable, and took the time to make sure I understood all the information he shared. The climbing spot was beautiful and appropriate for my skill level. I learned more than I expected, and was able to challenge myself. John was very encouraging and an all around fun guy to be around. I look forward to more experiences with Willard Mountain Guides and would absolutely recommend them for anyone looking to learn and have fun while climbing!

This is my second clinic with John. When I approached him with the intention of learning how to set up top rope anchor and rappel for single pitch routes, he immediately came up with an agenda. During the session, he was very good at not only showing how to do stuff but give enough explanations on why we are doing it and why in a certain order. He emphasized on developing good habits too and always pointed out actions I had at the time what he thinks can be done better. He was also knowledgeable in different climbing devices and their usage under different scenarios and weather. Will definitely take clinics with him again because I like his philosophy when comes to outdoor approaches, risk management, + a genuine and patient personality!

Going ice climbing for the first time was absolutely one of the most exciting things Ive ever done in my life. So exicting that my friends and I booked another climb right after meeting John at Willard Mountain Guides. He’s such an amazing person and I would not trust anyone else with my life when it comes to climbing. His experience and knowledge make it so fun every time we go out. Get out there and have some fun! -RJT

Splendid ice climbing over 2 days with Owen as our guide at the Notch. Owen was cheerful, supportive, put up lots of climbs for both of us and provided technical guidance. Just super perfect!

I had an amazing experience ice climbing with John. I have been climbing for a few years and was not just looking for an exciting day, but technique instruction. John was an excellent teacher and really helped clean up my ice climbing skill set. If you are brand new and looking for someone to show you the ropes or an experienced climber looking to push your limits I highly recommend Willard Mountain Guides.