Meet the Instructors
WesLey Calkins
Meet Wes. He began climbing in his teen years on trips with the Boy Scouts. That exposure lead to early trips to the Bugaboos in Canada and New England. During these years, the technique and talents needed were honed right here in North Carolina and the other Appalachian climbing zones.
Through bushwhacking to climb hidden gems in Linville Gorge, and linking up classics like the Mummy, Daddy, and the Prow, Wes became proficient at placing gear and finding his way up sandbagged 9+ test pieces … and being up for any climbing adventure, on any kind of rock or ice.
Wes left the east coast for Colorado in 2016 where he had a successful and ongoing career guiding in the Front Range of Colorado and other places like Red Rock Nevada, Moab Utah, North Cascades National Park Washington and other areas.
The Appalachian Mountains and climbing in the Southeast was always on Wes’ mind, and he returned to the area in 2021.
Qualifications: AMGA Rock Guide, AMGA Rock Instructor, AMGA Apprentice Alpine Guide, AMGA Ice instructor Course, AMGA Single Pitch Instructor Program Provider, Wilderness First Responder, AIARE Avalanche Course Instructor, Pro 1 Avalanche Course, Leave No Trace Trainer.
RyAN Mallon
Raised amidst the salty breezes and crashing waves of the New Jersey coast, Ryan developed a love for adventure and exploration from an early age. However, it wasn't until he discovered the rugged beauty of the Appalachian Mountains that his true passion was ignited. Nestled within these ancient peaks, Ryan found not only a playground for outdoor pursuits but also a profound connection to the natural world. Having dedicated the last 13 years to coaching athletes of all ages, skill levels, and across multiple athletic endeavors, Ryan holds a deep understanding of the human body and its potential for greatness. He is driven by a singular mission: inspire climbers to push beyond their comfort zones and discover new heights of strength and resilience - all while being immersed in the cleansing spirit of adventure that rock climbing provides. Drawing upon years of experience between scaling the granite cliffs of the east and navigating the narrow slots of the American west, Ryan ensures that every ascent is not only memorable but also secure. Beyond guiding, Ryan is a passionate advocate for environmental stewardship and conservation. He believes in the importance of preserving our planet for future generations, and actively participates in conservation efforts and outdoor education initiatives to help protect the fragile ecosystems of the mountains he calls home.
Qualifications: AMGA Single Pitch Instructor, NOLS Wilderness First Aid