Don Nguyen
Don is a first-generation American and was born in Oklahoma City’s Little Saigon. His parents were refugees of the Vietnam War. Growing up in a flat place with little woods or topography, Don was drawn West to the Colorado Rockies to study mountain guiding. Further travels brought Don to the PNW where he began his guiding career on Mt Rainer and Mt Shasta. The ubiquitous human journey and pilgrimage in the wilds has always been very important to Don and, it is his passion to be able to guide and work with people in the outdoors.
Don loves mountaineering, ice climbing, rock climbing, backpacking, hunting, and traveling with his partner Emily.
Don was a contestant in 2015 on the Reality TV show “Naked and Afraid” in Namibia.
Significant Ascents
Mt. Whitney
Mt. Rainer 10 summits
Mt Shasta 3 summits
The Grand Teton
Gannet Peak
Mt. Adams
Mt. Hood 5 summits various routes 3 ski descents.
Mt. Baker 3 summits
Mt Shuksan two summits and a ski descent.
Pico de Orizaba
Iztacciulatl
Many Colorado 14ers and ski descents.
Certifications
WFR/ CPR
Avalanche Level 2
Leave No Trace Trainer
AMGA Single Pitch Instructor
AMGA Alpine Guide Course
AMGA Ice Instructor Course
AMGA Alpine Skills Course
Great guides, excellent support infrastructure, everything was really well thought-out. I’ve recommended AAI to multiple people for future expeditions.
