Chase Nelson

Chase began a life in the mountains at an early age, spending time backpacking, hunting, and fishing with his family in Washington. He first climbed Mount Rainier at age 18 and has been an avid climber ever since, in Washington and during his time at the University of Idaho. After finishing his degree, his passion for climbing and teaching others took priority and inspired him to start guiding. Since joining RMI he has spent time guiding not only on Rainier, but also in the Alaska Range, the North Cascades, and internationally. When not guiding, Chase is often found rock climbing in Washington or climbing ice in Montana.
Climbing Resumé
- 40+ ascents of Mount Rainier via the Disappointment Cleaver, Emmons Glacier, and the Kautz Glacier
- 2 ascents of Denali via the West Buttress, Alaska
- Moose's Tooth via the Ham and Eggs Couloir, Alaska
- Volcanoes of Mexico and Ecuador: Chimborazo, Pico de Orizaba
- Cordillera Blanca of Peru: Ishinca, Urus, and Pisco Oeste
- Alpine climbs in Alaska's Little Switzerland: Lost Marsupial route, South Face of Middle Troll
- Mount Shuksan via the Fisher Chimneys and the Sulphide Glacier routes, Washington
- Mount Baker via the North Ridge, Washington
- Traverse of the Liberty Group (Liberty Bell, Concord Tower, Lexington Tower, North Early Winters Spire, South Early Winters Spire) in a day
- The Long’s Peak Diamond, Colorado
- Numerous routes in the North Cascades and Stuart Range
Certifications
- Wilderness First Responder
- American Avalanche Institute Avalanche Level II
- AMGA Apprentice Rock Guide
- Leave No Trace Trainer