New Hampshire Climbing Guide -- Mountaineering Instructor -- Member of The North Face Climbing Team

Where will we meet in the morning?
This depends on where we are climbing. In the summer we usually meet at the parking areas below either Cathedral Ledge or Whitehorse. It is also possible to meet at The Frontside Grind, a coffee shop located in the Eastern Slope Inn. For climbs at Cannon cliff we meet at the parking area below the north end of the cliff. If you don't know the way I will send you a map and directions. In the winter we normally meet at Dunkin Donuts in Glen or in Crawford Notch at whatever area where we'll be climbing. Mt. Washingtoon courses meet in the basement of the Pinkham Notch Visitor's Center.

What time do classes generally start and end?
Year round the normal meeting time is between 8:00 and 8:30am. I am also happy to meet people earlier. We normally climb for a full day, quitting around 5pm. We are very often the first group at the cliff and the last group to leave.

What do I need for clothing?
For winter courses we recommend you dress as if going out for a day of skiing. You will need to supply your own long underwear and socks, but SMG can normally supply you with clothing items you might be missing such as shell pants and jacket, puffy jacket, gloves, hat, goggles etc. Let us know what you are missing and we can usually help you out. I don't want anyone to not take a course because they don't have the clothing or gear.

Where should we stay?
If you email me I will send you my list of recommended places to stay. It includes everthing from a local bed and breakfast run by some friends of mine, to a local hostel, motels, and camping (either free in the National Forest or at one of the many local campgrounds). Depending on the time of year, I've seen motel room rates as low as $29. In peak season you can expect to pay about $60 for one of the cheaper motels or inns. The youth hostel is approximately $22/night. I also own a small chalet which I have for rent on Cyber rentals. If you are interested let me know and I will send you the link. It goes for about $100-$125/night and will comfortably sleep 4-5.