Lester
5.0
(24)
Single Pitch Instructor
Harrisonburg, Virginia, USA
I am an avid climber and backpacker who loves taking people outdoors. For more than 30 years, I have been leading wilderness adventures in my backyard here in Virginia and West Virginia.
In addition to being an AMGA Single Pitch Instructor, I am also a certified member of the Professional Climbing Instructors' Association and a Wilderness First Responder. I have done cave rescue training with the National Cave Rescue Commission and am a proud member of the National Speleological Society.
I have published two editions of CLIMBING ROCKingham County, a guidebook of local crags around Harrisburg, VA. I also share my thoughts with fellow outdoor lovers and leaders via my quarterly newsletter "GUYdelines".
I very much enjoy working with young people and supporting the next generation of outdoor leaders.
Come and join me for a climb here in the Appalachians anytime. I look forward to showing you all of the best local spots!
Programs
Reviews
Kristi Hallowell
5
August, 2024
Our adventure with Lester was phenomenal. We are 5 adults with intermediate level indoor rock climbing experience and Lester was able to tailor the trip to exactly what would challenge us but not push us too far. Lester’s emphasis on safety was comforting as this was our first time outdoor rock climbing. He is also so knowledgeable about the sport and the Shenandoah park so we learned a ton while we were out there. Highly recommend if you are looking for a local adventure, we had a great time! One recommendation if you are climbing at Little Stony Man - leave time to drive into the park when you are traveling. That took us an extra 15min so we were a bit late to the meeting spot.
Read more
Isabella Montoya
5
July, 2024
The 1/2 day of rock Climbing in Shenandoah was amazing. We had a lot of fun. Lester was incredible, professional, and patient. Great experience!!
Read more
Patti Deem Robbins
5
July, 2024
Lester was fantastic. It was our first time climbing (except for indoor rock climbing walls!). We were a little nervous, but he took the time to explain exactly what to expect and really calmed our nerves! We enjoyed it very much and would definitely recommend him to anyone looking to climb in Shenandoah!
Read more
Daniel Brown
5
October, 2023
I often fail to write reviews but not this time. Lester was nothing short of an amazing teacher and guide! He picked a great spot to climb in Shenadoah National Park. The views were incredible. He had asked us ahead of time if a dad and daughter could join us and made the trip affordable. Lester started with intros and safety. I could immediately tell he was a guide with strong character, which definitely brings assurance when you are going to be attached to his ropes. Lester did an awesome job breaking down the steps for us to learn gearing up, belaying, and climbing! In our group, we had different comfort levels with this new experience. Lester encouraged, demonstrated, and pushed us a bit to step out of our comfort zone but only what we were up for. For those more comfortable or experienced, he gave us fun challenges. It was an awesome experience and honestly the highlight of my trip.
Read more
Join our newsletter!
Stay up-to-date on the best adventures.