Meet the guides: Sharon Birchfield of Mountain Madness

Sharon’s role as a guide involves imparting valuable skills to her clients, many of whom are new to the challenges of mountain climbing. “I primarily teach people how to prepare, move, and survive in the mountains,” she says. From choosing the right clothing and food to packing efficiently and using technical tools like ice axes and crampons, Sharon’s guidance is comprehensive. She is there every step of the way, offering encouragement and making critical decisions, such as when it’s best to turn back and try another day. This expertise is especially vital when conditions become adverse, and her clients would otherwise be out of their element.

While summiting a peak is often a key objective for many climbers, Sharon emphasizes that it should not overshadow the importance of safety and the overall experience. “For me, reaching the summit when I’m working isn’t usually very important. My guests’ safety is the most important,” she asserts. Sharon often climbs peaks multiple times, so her focus shifts to ensuring her clients have a safe and enjoyable journey. She follows a guiding principle she learned early in her career: “The first goal is to come home safely. The second goal is to come home friends. The third goal is to reach the summit.” This mantra underscores her commitment to safety and camaraderie over the pursuit of summits.

Sharon encounters a wide array of motivations among her clients. On Mt. Hood in Oregon, she often guides “high pointers” – climbers aiming to summit the highest peak in each of the 50 states. For many, Mt. Hood represents their first technical or snow and ice climb. Charity climbs, such as those organized by Team Survivor NW for cancer research, are another common endeavor.

Clients also have personal reasons for climbing, from honoring a family member who once summited to spreading a loved one’s ashes at the peak or proposing at the summit. Sharon notes that many are driven by a lifelong desire to climb a prominent volcano they’ve admired from afar, often marking a significant birthday or life milestone.

The diversity of Sharon’s clients is one of the aspects she enjoys most about her work. “We get all types of people,” she says, “from young, fit folks wanting to learn technical skills to older climbers just wanting to stand on top once, to kids and families.” This variety enriches her guiding experiences, bringing together individuals of different ages and backgrounds united by a love for the mountains.

However, Sharon also acknowledges the lack of diversity in climbing, noting that most clients are from middle to upper-class backgrounds and are predominantly Caucasian. She recognizes the privilege required to participate in mountaineering and sees slow, incremental changes towards greater inclusivity in the sport.

As a guide with Mountain Madness, Sharon is part of a team that values safety, education, and the joy of adventure. Mountain Madness is known for its commitment to providing unforgettable climbing experiences, whether guiding novice climbers or leading seasoned adventurers on challenging routes. For those interested in exploring the peaks with Sharon or learning more about their programs, visit Mountain Madness.

Sharon emphasizes the importance of having the right gear to ensure a safe and successful climb. Some of her top recommendations include:

• Layered Clothing: Essential for adapting to changing weather conditions.

• Technical Tools: Ice axes and crampons for navigating icy and snowy terrains.

• High-Quality Boots: Supportive and durable boots are crucial for comfort and safety.

• Efficient Packing: A well-packed backpack with necessary gear and supplies without unnecessary weight.