AAI (American Alpine Institute)
ERTI (ExpedReview Trust Index): 4.9 / 5 · 26 verified reviews since 2019
ERTI reflects a company's trustworthiness, reputation and ratings across the industry, and more: a score out of 5, built from reviews we verify and many other factors.
World-class mountain education, exceptional guided adventures, and inspiring natural preservation.
Quick Facts: AAI (American Alpine Institute)
- ERTI Trust Index: 4.9 / 5
- Verified Reviews: 26
- Average Rating: 5.0 / 5
- Years Experience: 51
- Based in: United States
- Destinations: 17
Where they've been reviewed
- Mount Baker · ★ 5.0 average rating · 12 reviews · #1 of 2 guides with reviews for Mount Baker
- Denali (West Buttress) · ★ 5.0 average rating · 3 reviews · #1 of 3 guides with reviews for Denali (West Buttress)
- Mount Shuksan · ★ 4.8 average rating · 2 reviews · #1 of 3 guides with reviews for Mount Shuksan
Also guides: Alpamayo, Ama Dablam, Antisana, Chimborazo, Cotopaxi, Everest via South Col, Forbidden Peak, Glacier Peak, Illimani (Bolivia), Kilimanjaro climb, Matterhorn, Mont Blanc climb, Mount Rainier, Mount Whitney (Sierra)
The American Alpine Institute (AAI) is one of North America's most respected mountain schools and guide services, with more than 50 years of experience helping climbers, mountaineers, skiers, and outdoor enthusiasts develop the skills and confidence to pursue ambitious objectives safely. Founded in 1975, AAI combines exceptional guided adventures with world-class mountain education, emphasizing that great guides are first and foremost great teachers. AAI offers instructional courses, guided expeditions, and professional training across North America and around the world. Programs include rock climbing, alpine climbing, mountaineering, glacier travel, ice climbing, backcountry skiing and splitboarding, avalanche education, technical rescue, wilderness medicine, and international expeditions to some of the world's most iconic peaks. Unlike many guide services that focus solely on reaching the summit, AAI's philosophy centers on creating independent, competent mountain travelers. Students leave with practical skills they can apply on future adventures, whether climbing locally or pursuing major alpine objectives such as Denali, Mount Rainier, Mount Baker, Mount Shuksan, or international expeditions. The Institute is accredited by the American Mountain Guides Association (AMGA), employs highly experienced professional guides, and has earned a reputation for small group sizes, personalized instruction, and a steadfast commitment to safety. Its comprehensive guide training program has helped shape industry standards and reflects a culture of continuous learning and professional development. Whether you're taking your first steps into the mountains or preparing for advanced alpine objectives, the American Alpine Institute provides the education, mentorship, and guided experience to help you climb farther, travel more confidently, and become a stronger mountain athlete.
Website: https://www.alpineinstitute.com/
Recent Reviews
Our guides were knowledgeable
Our guides were knowledgeable and excited to tune the course to the experience of our group. That allowed us to push our limits and try some challenges pushing the edges of the curriculum, which made for some memorable learning experiences and sweet objectives. Great adaptability and fostering of a
Sierra Nevada and Red Rocks Canyon
We have climbed several times with Ross. One of my favorite things about climbing with him is that he seems just as stoked to be doing the climb as we are. The good energy is not just motivating but also keeps things fun even on super long days in the alpine. Just as importantly Ross keeps safety to
Mt Baker with AAI
This was an APL 1 mountaineering course. We were a diverse group with varying backgrounds in the outdoors, and the guides did a great job making the material accessible for all. They had a wealth of personal and professional experience and were great teachers. We took a less traveled path up to our
We had an awesome time!
We had amazing rock climbs, and open bivys in the mountains. I learned a ton about leading trad climbing, cravase rescue, and rock rescue.
Great Course!
I took my AIARE 1 and Avalanche Rescue classes with the American Alpine Institute. My instructor Richard Riquelme was extremely knowledgeable and a great guide. Everything we learned was broken down into an easy to follow progression and I’m excited to learn much more through this company. Thank
Frequently Asked Questions about AAI (American Alpine Institute)
Is AAI (American Alpine Institute) a reputable guide company?
AAI (American Alpine Institute) has an ERTI Trust Index of 4.9/5 based on 26 verified reviews on ExpedReview.
How many reviews does AAI (American Alpine Institute) have?
AAI (American Alpine Institute) has 26 verified reviews on ExpedReview with an average rating of 5.0/5.
Where does AAI (American Alpine Institute) operate?
AAI (American Alpine Institute) operates in 17 destinations, including Everest via South Col, Forbidden Peak, Chimborazo, Mont Blanc, Rainier.