John Collis

Since discovering a passion for climbing while getting his Bachelor’s degree in Geology at Colorado College, John has spent time traveling and climbing across parts of Africa, the Andes, Southeast Asia, Canada, the Rockies, and the Cascades. When not in Washington, John calls Moab, Utah his home and can be found exploring its canyons and desert towers.
Take 5 with the Guide
If you could only take one album on an expedition?
Ride the Lightning – Metallica
Favorite movie?
2001 – A Space Odyssey
Dream climbing partner for your dream climb?
Stuart Robertson for the Rupal Face
Guilty pleasure?
Karaoke. On second thought, I feel no guilt about this.
One piece of advice for aspiring mountaineers?
“There are no bad conditions, only weakness.” – 10 year old girl next to me at the climbing gym
Significant Ascents
Denali
Aconcagua
Mt. Rainier via DC, Emmons, Kautz
Mt. Baker
Forbidden Peak
Dragontail Peak
Zodiac, El Capitan
Mt. Proboscis and Lotus Flower Tower, Cirque of the Unclimbables
The Grand Traverse, Tetons
Certifications
WFR/CPR
AIARE Level II
Leave No Trace Trainer
AMGA Rock Guide
AMGA Advanced Alpine Guide Course
AMGA Single Pitch Instructor
Great guides, excellent support infrastructure, everything was really well thought-out. I’ve recommended AAI to multiple people for future expeditions.