Your Adventure Starts Here

Ian Nicholson is a highly experienced IFMGA/UIAGM-certified mountain guide and one of the most respected professional guides in the Pacific Northwest. With more than 17 years of guiding experience, Ian has led climbers and skiers on alpine, rock, ice, and ski-mountaineering objectives throughout Washington State, the North Cascades, Alaska, South America, and the European Alps.

As a fully certified AMGA Mountain Guide in Rock, Alpine, and Ski disciplines, Ian holds the highest level of professional guiding certification available in the United States and internationally. This rare credential reflects extensive training, rigorous examinations, and a long track record of safe, effective leadership in complex mountain terrain.

Ian is widely known for his calm demeanor, patience, and exceptional ability to teach and mentor climbers and skiers at all levels. In addition to guiding clients on technical climbs, ski tours, and mountaineering expeditions, he serves on the AMGA National Instructor Team, where he helps train and evaluate aspiring professional mountain guides from across the country.

Deeply committed to client experience, risk management, and long-term skill development, Ian takes pride in helping guests build confidence, refine technique, and achieve meaningful mountain goals. Whether you’re seeking a North Cascades alpine climb, a guided ski-mountaineering objective, or professional instruction from an elite guide, Ian brings unmatched experience, passion, and professionalism to every trip.

Washington Alpine Guides — Professional guided climbing, mountaineering, and ski adventures in Washington and beyond.