I had a single-party climb yesterday (12/31/19) with Tamas at JTNP. I made two outstanding choices regarding yesterday...first, I decided to get out of my comfort zone and do some climbing while at a NP known for it, and secondly, hiring a guide through Stone Adventures!

Tamas started by greeting me and discussing options based on the weather, available routes and crowd size. He gave me a few different options with pros/cons to both and allowed me to be part of that decision process. The right decision was made to move to drier and warmer ground. During the entire process, he made sure I was aware of my responsibilities and was comfortable in the climb. He chose a great first ascent that allowed me to gain confidence and become familiar with the process. Our second ascent was a multi-tier climb that was just the right amount above my comfort and experience level. I wanted to be challenged and it was the right amount. Tamas allowed me to take my time, look for my own route and only verbally assisted when he knew I wasn't coming up with a great answer. He gave me tips not only on routes and holds but basic climbing techniques that allowed me to climb a pitch I would've thought was impossible for me.

As the day ended, we moved to a short climb area and he had me work my way up two more ascents. By then, I was exhausted from the day and exhilarated from the climbing. Tamas took his time with me and with other climbers during our routes. He made sure that I was comfortable during tier changes and rappelling.

I had a great, fun-filled, challenging 4-hour adventure. If I could go back and change anything...I wouldn't!

Thanks again to Stone Adventures and especially to Tamas for making my JTNP trip even more memorable.