Stuart has had a lifelong passion and love for the mountains and outdoors.  Early backpacking trips with family and friends quickly progressed to mountaineering throughout Britain. This was often in full on Scottish winter conditions.  Following university, where Stuart studied Geography, he spent four months trekking and climbing in the Nepal Himalaya.  On return, Stuart served as a Paratrooper with the British Army and much of this time was spent on Britain’s higher ground in less than ideal conditions.  In the past twenty years, Stuart has had the privilege of climbing rock, ice and alpine routes throughout the diverse State of Washington.  Stuart has been guiding professionally for over 15 years and this has afforded him the opportunity to lead trips across the globe.  Climbers who have been on trips with him have remarked on his calmness under pressure, strong leadership skills, wry Scottish humor and his genuine enthusiasm for seeing his clients realize their goals while being safe and having fun in the mountains.  When not climbing he enjoys spending time with his wife, Amy, and sons Kai and Ewan at their home on top of Cougar Mountain.

Significant Ascents

190+ ascents of Mount Rainier via eleven routes
13 Denali expeditions
9 Aconcagua expeditions
8 Ascents of Mount Vinson, Antarctica
3 Ski the Last Degree, South Pole
15 Ascents El Pico de Orizaba and Iztaccihuatl, Mexico
40+ Ascents of Mount Baker via six routes
3 Ascents of Mount Hood via three routes
12 Ascents of Mount Shuksan via three routes
Over 50 Cascade Peaks
Over 150 Scottish Munros, including Ben Nevis, via ten routes
Numerous rock, alpine and ice climbs in Europe and North America up to E1 5.10 Scottish Winter Grade IV-V
Solo climbs of Imja Tse , Mera Peak, Chukhung Tse and Tharpu Chuli in the Nepal Himalaya

Certifications

Wilderness First Responder
CPR for the Professional Rescuer
Avalanche Level I & II
B-3 Interagency Helicopter Safety Certification
Leave No Trace Trainer
UK Mountain Leader Board Mountain Leader Training
Single Pitch Supervisor

Awards & Recognition

2 Denali Pro Pins