Matthew Wiech

Matt has been climbing since he was a teenager. A true all around practitioner, he enjoys technical rock and ice climbing, bouldering, alpine climbing, and expeditions. Matt lives full time in the Adirondack Mountains of Northern New York, and regularly guides climbers on the brilliant rock and ice routes in the park. Over the years Matt has coached competitive climbing teams and traveled to guide climbers in other venues including the Cascade Range, Alaska, and Argentina. When not guiding and mentoring others Matt is happiest studying history, cooking seasonal meals, seeing live music, and of course climbing and skiing with friends and family.

Take 5 with the Guide

What was your first mountain? When did you climb it? Who were you with?
“Mount” Kelso, Ontario Canada 1995 with my high school friend Peter. More of a limestone escarpment than a real mountain, but first real taste of the high and wild.

What’s always in your snack bag?
Meat and cheese. I have more of a savory than sweet tooth.

If you could be stuck with anyone (past or present) at base camp for a week, who would you choose?
Someone that’s worked for the Foreign Service or CIA. I’m sure I could get them to spill the beans and tell some great stories with enough storm days in a tent.

What’s your favorite thing to do when you’re not guiding?
Dancing, not the formal kind.

One piece of advice for aspiring mountaineers
The greatest gift I’ve ever received from climbing is friendship.