Changing young people’s lives for the better.

Michael at home and happy in the Colorado mountains

1. Michael, how long have you been guiding?

I began taking my friends out adventuring biking in fourth grade. I have been guiding professionally for Deer Hill since 2001. I have also been ski guiding in the winters since 2001.

2. What inspired you to be a guide?

I enjoy being out in nature where the world is as it has been for thousands of years, and discovering places of great beauty. Guiding allows me to share this with others.

3. What do you think makes a good leader?

To be able to relate to students of different backgrounds is important. Sometimes I try to imagine that I grew up in Napa playing soccer or being a weekend adventurer from the East Coast. Wrapping my head around different mindsets gives me the ability to provide appropriate challenges for diverse young folks.

4. What is your favorite part of Guiding for Deer Hill Expeditions?

The food! Really, I love to share with young people the wonder of the world.

5. Can you describe the most special place you’ve been able to share with a Deer Hill group?

The ice cold emerald waters of the 12,000 foot high glacial lakes of the Colorado Rockies are truly breath-taking, especially when you dive in.

6. What do you do when you are not leading trips for Deer Hill?

I own and operate a winter outdoor school, Mountain Goat Ski Guides, in Silverton Colorado.

7. What advice would you give someone before their first Deer Hill trip?

Do it. No Question. Be Brave. It will change your life for the better. You will be stronger, dirtier and happier about your life after you complete a course.

To read more about Michael and Mountain Goat Ski Guides, check out this article in the March issue of the Durango Telegraph.