Meet Our Guides
Timothy Keating
CEO -
40 Years Professional Guiding Experience
Avalanche Pro 2
WFR
Tim's Bio
Tim, one of the founders, has been guiding and operating SWS Mountain Guides for over 40 years. He has over 100+ summits on Mt. Shasta and over 100+ on Mt. Whitney. As an avid backcountry skier, he has logged countless ski ascents & descents on Mt. Shasta, Mt Lassen, and several Trans Sierra Ski crossings and various climbing and skiing routes in the High Sierras. Tim’s high altitude experience includes ascents and 42 plus international expeditions in Mexico, Ecuador, Peru, Bolivia, Argentina, Tanzania, Nepal, and Russia.
- AMGA Alpine Guides Course
- AMGA Certified Single Pitch
- Professional Climbing Instructor Guides Institute Certified Top Rope Guide
- Wilderness First Responder
- Certified American Avalanche
- Association Avalanche Instructor
- Pro 2 Avalanche Training Certification,
- Graduate from the
National Avalanche School - Leave Not Trace Certified Trainer
- Membership in the American Alpine Club since 1997.
- BA in Geography from Cal Poly Humboldt State University
- Tim speaks Spanish, is married to Emily they have a 23-year-old son; Joshua who loves playing college baseball.
David Cressman
COO -
28 Years Professional Guiding Experience
Avalanche Pro 1
WFR
David's Bio
Caleb's Bio
His passion for exploration only grew as he traveled extensively throughout the country, visiting nearly every state West of the Mississippi River. These experiences solidified his appreciation for diverse landscapes, influencing his work today as one of our lead avalanche educators. Holding the highest level of avalanche education currently available in the United States, he shares his expertise not only in guiding but also in collaborative efforts with other operations, contributing to their better understanding of terrain and mitigation practices.
Beyond Mt. Shasta, you’ll find him in the Sierras, North Cascades, or on international expeditions. When not guiding or educating, he enjoys mountain biking, running, and various physical challenges. His commitment to continuous improvement, both in and out of the mountains, reflects his unwavering passion for adventure.
Studying physiology and psychology, he seeks new ways to test himself and understand human reactions in different situations. Whether navigating challenging terrains or guiding others, he applies his knowledge to enhance personal growth and the experiences of those he guides or helps rescue.
His contributions extend beyond the mountains, working diligently behind the scenes to expand our offerings and improve the quality of climbs and courses. Currently based in Southern Oregon with his wife, daughter, two cats, and two dogs, his commitment to the outdoors is not just a profession but a way of life. Rooted in early adventures and enriched by extensive travel, his journey has shaped him into the seasoned guide, educator, and family man he is today.
Kique Romero
Technical Director
IFMGA Guide
AMGA Alpine Guide
AMGA Rock Guide
AMGA Ski Guide
Kique's Bio
Dr. Emily Sagalyn MD MPH FAWM
Consulting Physician
Diploma in Mountain Medicine (DiMM)
Consulting Physician
Emily's Bio
Dr. Emily Sagalyn-Brown is Board Certified in Emergency Medicine and holds the internationally recognized Diploma in Mountain Medicine (DiMM) training in glacier, high altitude, avalanche, and helicopter rescue. She is also the faculty of the DiMM program through the Wilderness Medical Society (WMS). Emily received her B.A. from Columbia University in New York, NY. She received her medical degree from the University of Massachusetts in Worcester, MA. She completed her Emergency Medicine residency at the University of Pennsylvania in Philadelphia, PA, and a fellowship in Wilderness Medicine and EMS at the University of Utah. While in Utah, she also completed her MPH. She serves on the board of the Wilderness Medical Society and earned their Fellowship of the Academy of Wilderness Medicine (FAWM). Emily has been the consulting physician for SWS Mountain Guides since 2010. She has provided wilderness medical care at the Kunde Hospital in Nepal, the medical clinics in Big Sky, Montana and Jackson Hole, Wyoming, and various locations throughout Utah.
Neil Woodruff
Lone Pine Manager
ADA Ski & Mountain Specialist
WEMT
Avalanche Level 3
Neil's Bio
Neil Woodruff began his outdoor career as a child learning North American plants and animals from his family members, including biology, botany, farmers, hunters, and gun makers. Since then, he has expanded his North American knowledge and studied African and South American ecosystems. Neil currently divides his year between California and Wyoming. In California, Neil primarily works for SWS Mountain Guides, where he guides: mountaineering, alpine rock climbs, rock climbing courses, survival courses, spring ski/snowboard mountaineering, and the occasional winter ascent in the Sierra Nevada. He winters in Jackson, WY, where he teaches snowboarding and skiing for Jackson Hole Ski Area, also serving as a staff trainer. Neil has also worked for various California and East Coast Ski Resorts and internationally in Portillo, Chile. Since 2007 he has served as a clinician for PSIA-w specializing in adaptive sports. Most recently, Neil moonlighted as a consultant and instructor with the Foundation Deporte y Desafio in the first Spanish accreditation of Adaptive Snowboard Instructors, an event held in preparation for the 2015 Universiada de Invierno (Winter World Student Games) in Granada. In his spare time, Neil has developed sport, aid, and traditional climbing routes in California from Mt. Shasta to Lone Pine and trekking routes in Kenya. Neil’s certifications include AASI Level III Snowboard instructor, PSIA Level III Adaptive Instructor (one of four persons to receive this certification on a snowboard), PSIA Level I Alpine Ski Instructor, and Children’s Specialist Level II. Neil also possesses Wilderness First Responder (WFR), Leave No Trace, AAA Avalanche II certifications, and the AMGA Ski Guides Course and AMGA Rock Guides Course. ADA Specialist.
Tony Brown
Guide
AMGA Rock Guide
Tony's Bio
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Brad Thomas
Guide
Avalanche Pro 1
PCGI Rock Guide
Physical Therapist
WFR
Brad's Bio
Brad discovered rock climbing while attending graduate school in the great hills of eastern Pennsylvania. Since, he has been relentlessly pursuing his climbing passion. From the sandstone cliffs of Kentucky, granite spires of the Sierra and the Tibetan foothills of western China, Brad has been seeking adventure and improving his alpine skills and knowledge for the last 10 years. He is excited to have finally turned this passion into his profession as a guide with SWS. When he’s not guiding or climbing, Brad spends his time crafting human powered adventures, on his bike or split-board, alongside his practice as a Doctor of Physical Therapy.
Matt Mahaney
Guide
AMGA Apprentice Alpine Guide
Avalanche Level 2
WFR
Matt's Bio
Winston Mueller
Guide
Avalanche Pro 1
PCGI Rock Guide
Wilderness First Responder (WMTC)
Winston's Bio
PCGI Single Pitch Rock Guide / Rock Apprentice
A3 Avalanche Level 1 & 2
A3 Avalanche Rescue
Wilderness First Responder (WMTC)
Jackson Kramer
Guide
Avalanche Pro 1
WFR
Ski Patrol
Jackson's Bio
An affinity for board sports and wilderness made for a seamless transition to splitboard mountaineering. He’s spent hundreds of miles on the splitboard riding all of the volcanoes in the lower 48 and follows winter to the southern hemisphere in the fall. An affinity for discovery has led him throughout the western United States, the Caucasus, Alaska, and the Andes. Calling mt shasta home he ski patrols at the local ski park and guides year round.
With an emphasis on education and conservation, Jackson’s passionate about giving you the tools to be successful in alpine spaces
Avalanche Pro 1
WFR
AAI Winter Weather Forecaster
LNT
Bec Bastian
Guide
Avalanche Pro 1
WFR
Ski Patrol
Bec's Bio
- Avalanche Level Pro 1
- WFR (Wilderness First Responder)
Kory DiGrande
Guide
Avalanche Pro 1
WEMT
Ski Patrol
Kory's Bio
For the past four years, Kory has been a member of the ski patrol at Heavenly. His passion for the mountains extends beyond ski descents or delving into the intricacies of snow science.
When he’s not immersed in snowy environments, he spends his summers on the shores of Lake Tahoe as a water ski coach and boat captain between guiding. Always in search of those life-changing moments on skis, or rock. Kory makes each moment you share an adventure and memory to cherish.
Zack Miller
Guide
Avalanche Level 1
Zack's Bio
His love for nature extends across various activities, from the exhilaration of snowboarding to rock climbing, backpacking, or the grandeur of mountaineering. A member of the Southern Oregon Climbers Coalition, he actively contributes to the climbing community, ensuring that the outdoor spaces he loves remain vibrant and accessible.
Beyond the peaks and crags, Zack finds solace in playing his guitar. However, his favorite pastime is mastering the art of Kendama. When not guiding, Zack can be found at a local ski area near Ashland, playing and working in the snow.
With Zack as your guide, you’re not just embarking on an adventure; you’re joining a journey led by someone who not only knows the terrain but has a deep connection to the community and a genuine love for the wild.
Simran Chambers
Guide
Avalanche Level 1
WFR
Leave No Trace
Simran's Bio
With a demeanor that’s as likable as her soft-spoken nature, Simran embodies the spirit of our guide team. Shasta’s allure beckoned her, drawing her into a world where work and play converge. She’s not just a guide; she’s a seeker of heights, both in mountains and personal achievements.
When she’s not guiding others, Simran can be found at Central Oregon Community College, diligently pursuing her academic goals. Her commitment extends beyond the cliffs as she contributes to one of the nation’s largest ski resorts, bringing her love for the outdoors to a broader audience.
Simran thrives on sharing her expertise, helping individuals discover the thrill of climbing and achieve their goals. Her friendly and approachable nature makes every climb not just an adventure but a memorable experience.
Matthew Morse
Guide
Avalanche Level 1
AASI Level 2 Ski instructor
Matthew's Bio
- AIARE Avalanche Level 1
- AASI Level 2 Ski instructor
- Wilderness First Responder
- Matthew joined the SWS team in 2013 and is always looking forward to sharing his joy of the great outdoors and help you create new and unforgettable memories of your own.
Hannah Matranga
Guide
Avalanche Level 2
WFR
OEC – Nat. Ski Patrol
AA in Outdoor Ed
Hannah's Bio
Her close secondary passion is teaching and sharing the things she loves with others, and working to eliminate the educational and financial barriers that keep people from experiencing the outdoors. She has worked in wilderness therapy, outdoor education, and guiding since joining SWS in early 2023.
Nate Musson
Guide
Avalanche Level 2
WFR
Nate's Bio
As the Host/Producer of The Not Snowboarding Podcast, Nate dives into the world of sharing stories that captivate and inspire. But that’s not all—this multifaceted individual is also the Founder of Shred Soles, a company crafting insoles for both snowboarding and skateboarding since 2009.
In the winter, you’ll find Nate in his element, carving through the snow on a snowboard or revving up a snowmobile. His passion for these activities goes beyond personal enjoyment—it’s about sharing the thrill with others. As a guide in Bear Valley, Nate takes pride in unveiling the hidden gems of terrain, offering a unique experience away from the beaten path.
Of course, let’s not forget his love for dogs. Nate’s friendly demeanor and diverse skill set make him not only a fantastic guide but also someone you’d want to share a mountain adventure with. Join Nate in exploring the untouched beauty of Bear Valley.
Colin Wesolek
Guide
Avalanche Level 1
WFR
Ski Instructor
Colin's Bio
Originally hailing from Necedah, Wisconsin, Colin made the journey West in pursuit of the great outdoors. His goal is clear – to immerse himself in the beauty of nature as much as possible. Beyond the slopes, Colin has developed a profound love for rock climbing and slacklining.
What sets Colin apart is not just his expertise in guiding or his artistic talents, but his infectious attitude towards life. Always ready to infuse an element of fun, Colin is more than a guide; he’s a companion who elevates the entire experience. It’s this magnetic quality that draws people to him, making every adventure not just memorable but genuinely enjoyable.
Jim Weeg
Nepal Trekking Guide
Wilderness First Reponder
Leave No Trace
Jim's Bio
Jim started mountaineering on a SWS Mountain Guides Mt Shasta Summit Climbs; he then started climbing in South America and ended up in the Himalayas, where he enjoyed trekking and climbing for over 12 years. Jim has visited Nepal over a dozen times, leading treks to Everest Base Camp, climbing Mera Peak and Island Peak, plus treks in the Annapurna Region. His real job is as an American Airlines mechanic, where he works long hours to spend weeks in the Himalayas, guiding, trekking, and climbing twice a year.
Lhakpa Sherpa
Nepal Climbing Guide
Nepal Associations
Lhakpa's Bio
Lhakpa Sherpa, Founder of Khumbu Excursion, is a Lukla native with over 26 years of experience in Nepalese tourism and is a sustainable tourism entrepreneur. By 14, he began his career with his father as a Porter; he climbed his way up the tourism ladder by transforming himself into a trekking guide. With years of hard work and dedication, he finally established himself as a trekking and tour operator in Khumbu Excursion working with SWS Mountain Guides for over 12 years, along with his experienced friends.
In a short period, he won success after success in the Nepalese tourism industry. His infectious passion and years of experience in the tourism industry prompted him to create Khumbu Excursion in 2023.
Lhakpa is also a Mountaineer; He has climbed many peaks, such as Mera Peak, Island Peak, Lobuche Peak, etc. Lhakpa says that the best part of his job is that he enjoys meeting and spending time with people from different countries with different cultures while showing them his backyard, the Himalayas.
JB Brown
Senior Guide
IFMGA Guide
Emeritus 1979-2022
JB's Bio
James Brown, aka “JB,” was one of the principal owners of SWS Mountain Guides with over 20 yrs of guiding experience. After college, “JB” moved to the mountains of Wyoming and Utah to live his passion. JB climbed or guided in almost every significant range in the US and four continents. With SWS, he guided in the Cascades, Eastern Sierra, and Internationally. In addition to his guiding career, JB was also an avid backcountry skier and ski mountaineer. If you couldn’t find him skiing big mountain lines in the winter, you could find him teaching, guiding, or mentoring in the western mountains’ mountain ranges.
- IFMGA Guide
- AMGA Certified Ski Guide
- AMGA Certified Alpine Guide
- AMGA Assistant Rock Guide
- PSIA Alpine Instructor level II
- Certified Backcountry Instructor
- Avalanche Level Pro 2
- Board Member, Sierra Avalanche Center
- Leave No Trace Certification
- ADA Specialist
JBs favorite trip to guide was Island Peak, Nepal.
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