06/22/2026
Will started climbing in 2021 after a three-month road trip out West that took him through dozens of parks and hundreds of miles of hiking. It was on that trip that he was first exposed to rock climbing. When he returned home, he came to Rocksport seeking Louisville’s hub for rope climbing.
“When I got here, I ran into some people I knew from other outdoor sports and found I was already somewhat intertwined in the social circle. Now it really feels like home and I’m here 3-5 nights a week”
Later, his love of climbing and the outdoors brought him to Washington, where he worked as a park ranger in the Mount Baker National Forest. During that chapter of his life, he lived off-grid in a small cabin, maintaining trailheads, prepping fire towers, and venturing deep into the backcountry.
His time there eventually culminated in a story that sounds almost made up. During a 38-mile hike, he was struck by rockfall, suffering a serious concussion and an open head wound. Being a resident hard man, however, he managed to radio a friend, hike the remaining five hours back to the road, and self-rescue.
His goal for this season is to send his first 5.13 in the Red, and he’s got a couple steep jug hauls picked out. (Better work on that endurance, buddy!)
Aside from climbing, Will is an avid photographer, self-published writer, backpacker, fly fisherman, and all-around interesting dude. Next time you’re in the gym, say hello. He’s a lovely guy and, once you get to know him, can probably tell you a crazy story or two.
