Mark Hammond

Since he started guiding here in 1997, Mark has used his calm, composed style and rock-solid skills to provide motivated clients of all skill levels with unforgettable climbing experiences. He’s guided classic routes in Eldorado Canyon and RMNP as well as climbs in Bolivia, Ecuador, Mexico (he speaks Spanish), and on Kilimanjaro. Though he loves climbing anywhere, his favorite destination is probably the Utah desert, where he guides many of our trips, from tower ascents to lead and aid climbing clinics. Mark has more than a dozen years of experience in the desert and over 100 tower ascents, including several first ascents.

Originally from the flatlands of Iowa, after moving to Boulder he noticed people climbing on the cliffs of Boulder Canyon. “THAT is what I want to do,” he immediately said to himself. He now walks to some of the finest climbs in the country from the front door of his home in Eldorado Canyon.

In addition to guiding, he helps oversee the technical and safety aspects of many BRC programs. He holds AMGA Rock Guide certification, teaches AMGA courses, and has instructed for the Colorado Mountain Club and Climbing for Life. His varied work background includes stints as a motorcycle racer and mechanic, fashion model (he knows the movie Zoolander by heart), small business manager, photographer, and political activist. When he’s not climbing, Mark enjoys playing guitar, mountain biking, skiing, photography, hot springs, margaritas, and playing with his two sons.

From high-altitude South American peaks to desert towers and countless local rock and ice climbs, Mark instills confidence in his clients, and it shows: “I guide to have a positive impact on people’s lives and to share magical moments with new friends.”