Peter Kamitses leading the crux corner pitch of Moonlight Buttress on his Duodess Revelation 9.2mm rope

     One of my favorite things about being a hopelessly addicted rock climber is how often I am able to immerse myself in beautiful and majestic landscapes.  Add to that the unique feeling of experiencing those landscapes from unusual vantage points often while trying to perform feats of mental creativity combined with physical strength and exactitude....and yeah...I love climbing!!!

Being a part of the American Mountain Guides Association Instructor Team means I get to spend a good portion of the fall teaching up and coming guides the ins and outs of leading clients through the vertical world. This year I was able to teach Rock Instructor Courses in North Conway, NH; Smith Rock, OR and Red Rocks, NV as well as an Advanced Rock Guide Course in Red Rocks.

Demos on White Horse Ledge in North Conway

The start of a two week climbing trip began with a first ascent in the Bear Tooth Mountains of Montana/Wyoming.  I had put a week of effort into this route starting in May before my brother Sam and I made the free ascent on the 19th of August.  We called this 8 pitch line the Velvet Hammer 5.12.

The climbing helmet, one of the most important pieces of equipment a climber can own.  Why do so many not wear them on a regular basis?

Opening a new 1000 foot rock climb with my Rock Rider Helmet on!