A true desert local, Mike was born and raised in 29 Palms with Joshua Tree National Park as his backyard playground. After a first taste of bouldering in high school, he dove in headfirst in 2014—picking up his first pair of shoes, a chalk bag, and a crash pad. What started as curiosity quickly became a calling.
Mike is drawn to the movement and texture of stone—the subtle shifts in balance, the puzzle of a sequence, the satisfying moment when everything clicks. For him, climbing is about more than the send. It’s about long days outside, good company, shared challenges, and the confidence that comes from stepping beyond your comfort zone.
As a guide, Mike brings steady energy, patience, and authentic desert roots to every outing. He loves introducing new climbers to the vertical world and helping experienced climbers refine their craft—all while sharing the landscapes that shaped him.
He climbs Joshua Tree year-round and heads to higher elevations in summer, including Idyllwild in the San Bernardino Mountains. You’ll also find him exploring granite at Spy Mountain in Landers or making trips to Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area for its sweeping sandstone walls.
When he’s not on the rock, Mike snowboards, rides dirt bikes and quads, catches concerts and movies, and searches out great food. He’s also known for packing out more than he packs in—doing his part to keep wild places clean and beautiful.
A day climbing with Mike—a true JT native—feels like heading out with a longtime friend. Whether you’re a first-time climber, a gym climber making the leap outdoors, or a seasoned climber looking for a partner with deep knowledge of Joshua Tree National Park, you’re in for an unforgettable day on the rock.
Instagram handle: Dunkfan9
Certifications: PCGI Top Rope Guide; First Aid/CPR