David Gottlieb
This is David’s second year working for AAI and he would like to convey how honored he is to work with such a talented group of guides and instructors. David’s enthusiasm for wild places began when he was just a small boy, hiking in the north cascades with his family. His first climb of Mt Rainier led to a passion for mountaineering and eighteen seasons working as a climbing ranger for the park service on the “mountain”. During this time he was able to learn and observe many details of Mt Rainier, climbing thirteen routes and participating in many significant rescues, as well as taking hundreds of hours of professional rescue training. More importantly, he made lifelong friendships.
It was these friends and the adventures they had that shaped his outlook and approach to the mountains. His love for travel and wilderness eventually led him to the Himalayas and since 2008 he has gone on nine expeditions there, including four first ascent peaks done alpine style. David has a lot of energy for sharing his knowledge of the mountains and encouraging others to succeed safely. When he’s not working or adventuring, he lives with his wife in the beautiful mountains of Eastern Washington.
Significant Ascents
Mount Rainier, Washington
Denali, Alaska (6 expeditions)
Mount Dickey, Alaska
Mount Dan Beard, Alaska
Peak 11,300, Alaska
Aconcagua, Argentina
Kang Nachugo, Nepal
Jobo Ringjang, Nepal
Takargo Ri, Nepal
Pangbuk Ri, Nepal
Kyajo Ri, Nepal
Certifications
Wilderness First Responder
Avalanche Level 2
Leave No Trace Trainer
Rigging for Rescue
Ropes that Rescue
Awards and Recognition
Mug Stumps Award 2010/2013
Shipton Tilman Award 2010
Lyman Spitzer Cutting Edge Award 2012/2013
McNeill-Nott Award 2009/2012/2013
Department of the Interior Valor Award 2010
American Red Cross Wilderness Hero Award 2005 (King County, WA)
I thought AAI lived up to its reputation as a great company to climb with. Both guides were very competent and I liked how you required everyone on the team to complete some sort of Prep course. That made the reviewing of skills much easier.
