Stephen Fredericks
Stephen, the founder of Summit Climbing Guides, is a certified Single Pitch Guide from the Professional Climbing Guides Institute (PCGI). Originally from Idaho, his deep-rooted passion for the outdoors began during his early years spent camping, exploring, and climbing in the picturesque surroundings of Sandpoint’s lakes and forests. Stephen honed his rock climbing skills across various locations in the United States, predominantly within the rugged terrains of Southern California. Joshua Tree National Park holds a special place in his heart, drawing him back repeatedly over the last 15 years. It was amidst these granite monoliths and iconic Joshua trees that Stephen sharpened his expertise before venturing to establish his own guiding company in 2022. Committed to prioritizing safety and enjoyment, Stephen's company provides unforgettable climbing adventures that mirror his enthusiasm for sharing the magic of rock climbing, hiking, rappelling, adventure outings, and instructional courses, that are customized and tailored to ones skill level and ability.
Brad Brainard
Brad, is a certified Single Pitch Guide from the Professional Climbing Guides Institute (PCGI). He has been guiding in Joshua Tree National Park since 2021, leading nearly 500 trips. He offers personalized experiences, including rock climbing, hiking, rappelling, and cave explorations. Brad works with people of all ages and experience levels, focusing on families and beginner climbers to make the sport accessible. His background includes guiding in the White Mountains and teaching at a science school in Big Bear, CA. An experienced climber, he is an accomplished backpacker, having completed the Appalachian Trail, Pacific Crest Trail, and 900 miles of the Continental Divide Trail! With Brad, you’ll have a safe and enjoyable Joshua Tree adventure!
Nick Cushman
Nick is a certified AMGA Single Pitch Instructor and a local of the Joshua Tree area, where he grew up. From an early age, Nick found joy in exploring the wilderness of Joshua Tree National Park and the surrounding areas. He started climbing 7 years ago (2017), beginning by bouldering in his backyard. Nick has a unique appreciation for the desert and finds enjoyment in discovering and developing new climbing areas. As an enthusiastic and dedicated climbing instructor, Nick loves to share the desert experience and the world of climbing with his guests of any skill level. His goal is to inspire others to appreciate and respect the natural wonders of the desert, while having an adventure to remember.
Matt is an AMGA Single Pitch Instructor, a Wilderness First Responder, and has been climbing for about 7 years. While he began climbing at the local climbing gym, Matt quickly discovered the powerful and transformative experience offered by climbing outdoors in venues like Tahquitz Rock, El Potrero Chico, and Joshua Tree. For Matt, guiding provides an opportunity to share the growth and joy he’s experienced through climbing with others in a safe and positive environment. Whatever you’re looking for from your climbing experience, Matt is here to help!
Matt Lappin
Seth Richards
Seth: AMGA Single Pitch Instructor.
Born and raised in San Diego, CA, Seth started climbing at the local bouldering area, Santee boulders, when he was a teenager. Since then, Seth has pursued rock climbing and has a passion for sharing his love for the outdoors with others. With a background in outdoor education, he is dedicated to giving his guests an adventure to remember!
William Ramirez-Watson
William: AMGA Single Pitch Instructor, nature enthusiast passionate about climbing and birding. Started climbing in Joshua Tree during zoology studies at CSULB. Conquered Sierra Nevada, Utah sandstone towers, Washington peaks. Skilled wildlife biologist dedicated to nature conservation. Certified Wilderness First Responder (NOLS) with climbing rescue training (American Alpine Club).
Cody Lee
Cody grew up in Las Vegas, NV, and Jackson Hole, WY, where he developed a deep appreciation for nature. He honed his climbing skills in Red Rock Canyon and the Teton Range. In 2020, he moved to Santa Barbara, exploring California's outdoors. With 8 years of climbing experience, he's a certified Single-Pitch Instructor (AMGA), Wilderness First Responder, and EMT. Cody's passion for climbing and the outdoors drives his guiding, where he ensures safe practices while delivering unforgettable wilderness adventures.
Sarah Witt
Sarah, a Midwestern girl inspired by PBS and National Geographic, always dreamed of being an explorer. After years in urban environments, she embraced adventure by moving to the California desert in 2016, forming a deep bond with the Mojave and Joshua Tree National Park. As a volunteer with the Joshua Tree Search and Rescue and a Board Director for Friends of Joshua Tree, she supports rock climbing in the park. Sarah has guided interpretive hikes since 2019, led Desert Institute, and is a certified California Naturalist. A dedicated conservationist, she inspires stewardship and shares her knowledge of the desert ecosystems while facilitating transformative adventures.
Cory Goei
Cory is an AMGA Single Pitch Instructor who was born and raised in Michigan. Before becoming a climbing guide, he enjoyed a successful career as a professional dancer. Cory's climbing journey began in a local gym in Dayton, Ohio, in the 1990s (yes, that’s the 1900s), where he met his adventure mentor. Together, they traveled across the United States, engaging in rock climbing, ice climbing, mountaineering, and backpacking.
Through these experiences, Cory developed a profound love for the outdoors and discovered his true passion: sharing that love with others. He enjoys teaching outdoor skills and helping people disconnect from their screens. Some of his most memorable climbs and hikes have taken place in the Wind River Range in Wyoming, the Grand Teton, Gannett Peak in Wyoming, Granite Peak in Montana, Mount Whitney in California, and Mount Rainier in Washington. However, his favorite place to climb and play remains Joshua Tree National Park.