Emilie Drinkwater
AMGA/IFMGA Mountain Guide
Hello! I'm Emilie Drinkwater
A little about me:
In 2001, after graduating from St. Lawrence University with a degree in Anthropology and 4 years of NCAA Nordic skiing, I begged my way into a job as a rock climbing guide in NY's Adirondack Mountains. Yes, begged! I had few credentials and little experience but I was determined to be a guide, to be outside, and to share my passion for climbing, skiing, and adventuring with others.
Today I am the 9th American woman and 100th American Mountain Guide to be certified at the highest level of training and credential attainable by a professional mountain guide -- IFMGA (International Federation of Mountain Guides Associations) -- an achievement recognized in more than 20 member countries.
Risk management is my priority but fun, summits, and successful days out are a close second!
Currently I guide full time in the winter for Powderbird Heli Skiing here in Utah, for Exum Mountain Guides in Wyoming in the summer, and I instruct and examine aspiring guides for the AMGA throughout the entire year.
More Fun Facts
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I live in Salt Lake City, UT with my husband but I grew up in, and have a great affinity for, the Northeast.
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I've climbed and skied all over the world and have first ascents/descents in the Adirondacks, Alaska, the Karakoram, and the Hindu Kush.
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I love exploring new mountains and cultures as much as I love hot springs, yoga, cats, gardens, and NBA Basketball
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I hate being cold but I love ice climbing and skiing.
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I've worked as an athlete for Outdoor Research and WNDR Alpine.
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I'm an AMGA Instructor Team Member
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I'm the Vice President of the Board of Directors of the AMGA
Follow my adventures across the globe!