Erin Smart

Basics

I'm 24 years old, with a B.A. in Natural Resource Management. I enjoy skiing, climbing, photography, mountain biking, surfing, cooking/eating quality food, and live music. My favorite book Dharma Bums and my favorite movie is The Big Lebowski

Personal Geography

I grew up in Seattle, spending weekends in the Cascades as a kid. I have spent four winters in La Grave, France, and I lived in Bellingham while going to Western Washington University. I am currently based in Seattle.

Proudest Climbing Achievement

My first multi-pitch climb was in France when I was 17. I was on a road trip with some friends, and was trying to keep up. The 9th and last pitch was the hardest, and I didn't think I was going to make it. My good friend reminded me that there is "no such thing as can't." I re-examined the problem, and made it right to the top. I will always remember pushing through that, and I will never say "can't" again.

Proudest Personal Achievement

Graduating from college, and then accepting that the mountains are where I am supposed to be. Which is where I find myself today beginning a whole new education with the AMGA.

Guiding Geography

Currently the Cascades, with hopes that more ranges and countries will be added very soon.

Climbing Philosophy

Everyone wants to reach the summit of the mountain, but the real adventure occurs while you are climbing it.

Favorite Climbing Destination

The French Alps.


Erin and friends.

Favorite Style of Climbing

Climbing up mountains and then skiing back down them.

Most Rewarding Moment as an AAI Guide

Receiving an email from a client post climb explaining how they still could not believe they made it to the top, and that their entire life view had been altered from pushing themselves to the top of the mountain. I was so happy to have been a part of that.

Inspirations

My family.


Getting ready to point it downhill.