Jake Gaventa hails from the hills of East Tennessee where he was introduced to rock climbing in high school by an inspired teacher. This love has lent itself to many years of vagabond adventures to the mountains of Europe, Asia, Alaska, and (almost!) every range in the lower 48. While not growing up in snow, Jake is making up for lost time by spending 150-days a year in ski boots. In 2013 he was awarded a grant from the American Alpine Club for a ski mountaineering trip in the Neacola Range of Alaska, where he and two friends succeeded in three first ascents, and 20 first descents. Other notable achievements include winning an uphill downhill ski race while wearing a women’s mini skirt and a fruit basket on his head, surviving a ski traverse in Alaska with no food for eight days, and guiding a novice blind climber up the first Flatiron. Jake loves guiding because he believes strongly in the power of positive outcomes people experience in the mountains. After nearly 20 yearsl, his passion is continually fueled by being able to share these experiences with other.
Jake has a BA in Outdoor Education and Environmental Studies from Prescott College, and is pursuing a Masters in Adult Education. He has worked for Outward Bound, adjunct faculty at Prescott College, and is a full time guide with Colorado Mountain School in Boulder, Colorado. Certifications include Wilderness EMT, Professional Member of the American Avalanche Association, AIARE Course Leader, AMGA Single Pitch Instructor, apprentice AMGA rock and alpine guide, and aspirant AMGA ski guide.
