John was standing on coarse golden granite, the soft rubber of his climbing shoes biting into the sharp crystals. His fingers curled around a rock horn projecting from the cliff face, helping him keep his balance. Mixing with the cold morning wind were the first rays of sunlight hitting his checks, and over his shoulder to the west, the triangular shadow of the Grand Teton crept over the valley. Throughout the early morning, John made use of the various techniques he had practiced over the last week, such as belaying the rope, tying in with his partner, handling the climbing equipment. Other important skills, including the use of personal clothing and equipment, nutrition, and understanding the flora, fauna and geology of the area, made his morning experience not only smoother, but also more enjoyable. As he watched the sun rise above the ridgeline and valley to the east, John realized how all of these pieces of the puzzle came together, allowing him to travel safely, efficiently and enjoyably in the mountains. When he got in touch with High Peak Adventures several months prior, inquiring about a multi-day trip in the mountains that would culminate in an ascent of the Grand Teton, this was the experience he was seeking.
Some of you might know Jeff Witt as a professional guide for Exum Mountain Guides or San Juan Mountain Guides. Apart from being AMGA Certified Rock and Alpine Guide Jeff's also a grassroots athlete for Adidas, who offers a tailored and personal trips through High Peak Adventures. Whether it'd be Grand Teton, European peaks or a challenging route in Patagonia, Jeff's goal is to provide a unique and personal experience for every trip. Hear it from the man himself:
November 4, 2023 – Val Verzasca, Switzerland – The Verzasca Dam, an engineering marvel nestled in the picturesque Val Verzasca of Switzerland that stands 220 meters tall, became the stage for the climbing elite. Red Bull Dual Ascent, now in its
second edition, attracted 24 of the world's best…
"At High Peak Adventures we create custom expeditions that fit each individual and their goals. Clients are not just hiring a tour guide, or someone that simply knows the way and holds the rope fast. You are engaging a knowledgeable partner with a breadth of experience, one who can anticipate and smooth out problems beforehand so they never hinder the trip," says Jeff.
Jeff is also an avid motorcyclist and adventurer, having toured much of the Americas and Europe by motorcycle, and visited more than 30 countries (and even Alaska!).
"Imagine yourself kicking steps into the frozen snow with your crampons, ice axe in hand, to summit one of the highest peaks in the world; trekking through the lush beech forests of Southern Patagonia, with granite peaks towering overhead; or leaning a motorcycle into the curve as you wind your way over a mountain pass in the Swiss Alps. High Peak Adventures draws on years of experience to create distinct, individual trips for small groups, turning your individual goals and dreams into a safe, authentic and unforgettable adventure," Jeff sums up.
Carman's
Grand Teton
Got the picture? If you feel this is exactly what you've been seeking for, hit Jeff up at jeffwitt@highpeakadventures.com and start the adventure!
Adam Ondra dominated the bouldering scene again and won a gold medal in the second World Cup competition in Salt Lake City. He took second place in the qualification and proceeded to the finals from the same position. This time, he was surprised by the victory and admits that a little luck was…
Adam Ondra completed today's finals in Meiringen, Switzerland, and won a gold medal in the first competition of this year's World Cup. He kept first place in bouldering continuously from the qualification until the very exciting finals. He was satisfied with his excellent form and appreciated a…
