Payton Bartlett

Payton Bartlett

Guide: Washington

Payton grew up in central Missouri and made the move out west for college. He attended the University of Wyoming and completed his degree in Business Marketing and Outdoor Leadership. During his time here he spent more time in Vedauwoo climbing off-widths and ski-touring in the Snowy Range than he did on campus. A NOLS semester in Patagonia cemented the desire to pursue a career in the outdoor industry. He spent a few seasons working in California at ski resorts and as a climbing instructor before returning to Wyoming to work as the Outdoor Program Coordinator at his alma mater. Now he’s excited to be making the move out to the Pacific Northwest to explore all there is to offer.

Take 5 with the Guide

What was your first mountain?
Medicine Bow Peak, freshmen year of college with my roommate.

What’s your favorite thing to do when you’re not guiding?
Mountain biking, reading, or hanging out with friends.

What’s always in your snack bag?
Peanut butter M&M’s.

If you could be stuck with anyone (past or present) at base camp for a week, who would you choose?
Teddy Roosevelt.

One piece of advice for aspiring mountaineers
Pick objectives that inspire you and make sure to do the proper preparations to have the best chance at success.

Significant Ascents

Pingora Peak, WY
Disappointment Peak, WY
Devil’s Tower, WY
Mt. Wilson, NV
Bear Creek Spire, CA
Mt. Tukuhnikivatz, UT
Castleton Tower, UT
Elephant’s Perch, ID
Various winter ski descents in Rocky Mountains

Certifications

Wilderness First Responder and CPR
Silverton Avalanche School Pro 1
AIARE Instructor Training Course
AMGA Rock Guide Course
AMGA Single Pitch Instructor
Mental Health First Aid
amga-spi

ALPINE ASCENTS BLOG

  • Cascades Conditions Report 7/9/2026

    Hello climbers, Summer mountaineering in the Cascades remains exceptional. Mild temperatures, clear skies, and light winds look like they continue to be the trend throughout the mountains.  Overnight freezing levels remain low enough to preserve glacier integrity and maintain excellent route conditions across the range. Given the high atmospheric stability and ideal temperatures, this stands […]

  • Cascades Conditions Report 7/2/2026

    Greetings climbers, Summer continues to deliver prime climbing conditions throughout the Cascades. After a stretch of minor precipitation, the forecast is calling for several days of mild temperatures, plenty of sunshine, and only light winds. Overnight freezing levels remain favorable for glacier travel, helping preserve route conditions across the range.  With stable weather, moderate temperatures, […]

  • Cascades Conditions Report 6/25/2026

    Hello climbers, Summer is in full swing here in the Cascades.  Last week, we saw freezing levels above normal for this time of year, but we are about to shift to much cooler temperatures and slight amounts of precipitation in the coming week. We anticipate the frontal system to begin on Friday and persist until […]

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