Never one to focus on a single aspect of climbing, Dale is an accomplished all around climber. His passion depends on the season, feeling equally happy on WI6, M9 or 5.13. As an AMGA certified guide, Dale spends much of his time encouraging new climbers through guiding. Whether mountain climbing in Peru, climbing long alpine routes in Rock Mountain National Park, or tackling classic ice routes in Vail, Dale loves teaching new climbers how to achieve their goals.

Recently he has been focusing on scary trad climbing and speed solo climbing in the flatirons near boulder. You are just as likely to find him working sport routes at Rifle, climbing long desert cracks at Indian Creek or seeking thin ice in Alberta. Whatever his endeavor, his quiet determination and love of the mountains will generally ensure success with a smile on his face.

Check out Dale's website for more photos and stories

2013 favorite gear updates

Packs Packs Packs! The new pack line up is awesome and these are my favorites and what I use them for.

Nozone 55

An alpine wonder with the just the right amount of volume and features. I use this pack for multiday alpine adventures in the summer and also as my primary ice climbing pack. It has easy to use tool attachments and is a breeze to strip for summit pushes while in the alpine. Yes- the Nozone is back!

Pyxis 12 & 18

Multi-pitch specialists- I use the bigger Pyxis for winter climbing when I need the room for a belay parka and the 12 for my warmer weather adventures. These pack are svelte and have a sternum strap but no waist belt and a small top pocket for the items you need often.

Sebring 25

This is a perfect pack that I use a ton when I'm doing a carry over rock climb and I want to fit as much as I can for the approach but still have a pack that climbs really well.

Venta MX

The Venta MX has quickly become my favorite ice and mixed climbing jacket. Its built with Wind Stopper and stops the winter wind in its tracks and does a good job on the drippy climbs. The hood fits nicely over a helmet and the body stays nicely under a harness. The front chest pockets are set high so my harness doesn't cover them up. All the features and fit put this masterpiece as number one for me.

Gamma MX pant

The new 2013 model is a my go to piece for the legs while cruising in the winter wonderland of ice climbing. The Fortius 2.0 fabric is durable and stands up well to wet and windy climbs. The fit is athletic but still roomy enough for multiple layering options. The older version of the Gamma MX was very good and this new version is very very good!

Harness- Since Arcteryx started with harnesses I always like to share my current favorite.

R-300

This new rock climbing harness has everything I need. At 310 grams this harness is packable and still so comfortable that I use it for everything rocky. Projecting at Rifle or guiding long moderates at Red Rocks this is my go to harness. The four gear loops rack just about anything you need and the simple but comfortable leg loops articulate perfectly.