Mountain Skills Climbing Guides

is the premiere climbing service to experience New York's beautiful Shawangunk and Catskill Mountains.

Mountain Skills was created to inspire and challenge climbers of all levels while fostering an awareness and appreciation of the natural environment. Our passion is rock and ice climbing, and our highly experienced New York State licensed guides have climbed extensively both in North America and at some of the finest crags around the world. Whether you're a first-timer looking for an introduction to the vertical environment or an experienced climber wanting hone or pick up some new skills, we pride ourselves on having a guide to suit your needs.

Visit our Excursions page for a detailed list of our ice and rock climbing courses, or check out our Specialty programs such as canyoning, scrambling, snowshoeing, multi-day hiking and mountaineering. Interested in organizing a unique adventure for your school, camp or organization? Please don't hesitate to contact us! Mountain Skills Climbing Guides also teams up regularly with production companies looking to add a vertical element to their work; check out our Media section for more information.

Mountain Skills is also excited to share its new Climb Away program – an adaptive climbing program designed for physically or emotionally disabled climbers or aspiring climbers of all ages and abilities. If you want to climb, we can make it happen.

Ice Climbing in the Catskills, NY

Founded in 1984 and located only 90 miles north of New York City, Mountain Skills is one of the few guide services authorized to guide rock climbing on the Mohonk Preserve, where the Gunks’ impressive cliffs are located. We support the ongoing efforts of the Preserve to protect the unique and fragile environment of the Shawangunk Ridge, and always offer discounts to current Mohonk Preserve members.

Mountain Skills Climbing Guides is a fully insured, American Mountain Guides Association (AMGA) accredited rock and ice climbing guide service committed to providing a superb experience to each and every climber and adventurer who joins us.