Jonathan Cooper
Growing up in the Pacific Northwest, I spent my younger years cutting my teeth amongst the craggy peaks and glaciated mountains of the Cascades. Those early experiences with friends set a tone of love and appreciation for what wild spaces provide for individuals and relationships. I strive to share that potential with everyone I step outside with, and meet those challenges with humility and tenacity.
I have been splitting my time between the San Juan Mountains of Colorado and Pacific Northwest since 2014, and both places feel like home for me. Professionally, I have been guiding and facilitating experiences in the outdoors since 2010, starting with the Northwest Outward Bound School leading mountaineering and sea kayaking courses, and moving on to teaching at an experiential education-based high school leading youth to three different continents on academic-based expeditions. Currently, I spend my time guiding year-round, teaching avalanche education courses around the country, and traveling the world teaching people how to be better prepared through Wilderness Medicine courses.
I am certified as an AMGA Aspirant Ski Guide, Single Pitch Instructor, Rock Guide, AAA Pro 2 Avalanche Worker, and Wilderness EMT. When not “on the clock,” I can be found chasing thermals under a paraglider, climbing rock, and descending mountain slopes year-round under the influence of gravity. And, most importantly, spending time fostering relationships with friends in the wild and beautiful spaces we are fortunate to call home!
