A BIT ABOUT THE SIERRA CLIMBING SCHOOL
We Believe in AMGA Training and Certification
The Sierra Climbing School was founded by two long time Yosemite guides Aaron Jones, and Mark Grundon, who settled in the Eastern Sierra. Both Aaron and Mark are AMGA Certified Rock Guides. All of our guides operate within their scope of practice for their training or certification level with the AMGA.
The Sierra Climbing School's goal is to be the number one source of climbing education in the Sierra.
Aaron Jones
Co-Owner, Head Guide
Aaron Jones began climbing in Kentucky’s Red River Gorge during high school. He first climbed in California’s Sierra Nevada in Yosemite in 2003 and moved here to climb full time in 2004. Aaron has climbed and guided many of the Sierra’s biggest climbing objectives including El Capitan (47 times, including several one day solo ascents) and multi-day alpine climbs in the range. AMGA Certified Rock Guide since 2012, Apprentice Alpine Guide, Wilderness First Responder since 2010, and a Leave No Trace Trainer. Aaron now calls Bishop, CA home with his partner Christy and two dogs, Tilly and Abbey.
Mark Grundon
Co-owner, Head Guide
Mark grew up in Vermont and began climbing at the age of 15 there. In college he got hooked with the climbing bug in Gunnision Colorardo. He has began climbing in the Sierra 2002 and has made his home in Lee Vining, where he lives with his wife Norma, daughter Isabella and dog Camelia. He also guides trips in Mexico's El Potrero Chico and runs El Potero Chico Guides. Mark is a strong believer in “living the dream”, and following your passions whatever they may be. Mark has his EMT, a Leave No Trace trainer certification, is an Assistant AMGA Single Pitch Instructor Provider, AMGA Apprentice Alpine Guide, and AMGA Certified Rock Guide.