If you want to hear what clients of AMI have to say about us, here are some testimonials about Appalachian Mountain Institute.

Testimonial

Patrick was a stellar ice climbing instructor who emphasized safety as well as technique. A pleasant combination of humor and business. Easily observable is his love of climbing and dedication to same. I have utilized the services of several high profile guide services, but Patrick Weaver was by far the most thorough and accommodating guide I have ever had the opportunity to climb with to date. I will, most assuredly, climb with him again in the near future.

Ed McCord

My 11 year old son and 13 year old nephew had the experience of a lifetime climbing all 4 pitches of the Nose with Jim. It was declared to be “the best trip ever!” on the way home. My boy is definitely coming back.

Michael Egues

“My day at Cedar Rock with Patrick was exactly what I was hoping for. As requested, I received excellent instruction on rescue techniques and improving my climbing movement and had a great time. Patrick is the most thorough guide I have ever climbed with and I will definitely be back for more instruction as well as guided climbs.”

Elizabeth Gainer, Florida

Our “first time” rock climbing family consisting of my wife and I along with our two 16 year old sons and 7 year old daughter had a blast! Our guide was outstanding and gave us the confidence to safely push ourselves to new heights. He guided us through the steps to successfully climb to the top of what I thought would be an impossible rock surface to ascend. Mom, Dad and all three kids made it to the top throughout the day. We’ll definitely return for another trip.

David Adler, New Freedom PA

Patrick is extremely knowledgeable in every area covered and beyond. His teaching methods are very thorough and effective, not only in coverage of material but in demonstration and application as well.

Marcus Webb

Patrick knows his stuff and is an excellent teacher. Although I am an experienced multi-pitch trad climber, I still learned tons on my outing with him. I highly recommend AMI.

Dan Stipe

I had the great pleasure to climb with Patrick Weaver this summer, founder and head guide of the Appalachian Mountain Institute. Having started my own guiding service twenty years ago, I am no stranger to the challenges and joys of professional mountain guiding and I feel qualified to say that Patrick is one of the finest guides and teachers I have met in the mountains.
We chose to climb a classic line in the Sierra Mountains on Temple Crag named Venutian Blind. While rated a moderate 5.7, the climb is a true classic alpine mountaineering objective with over a thousand feet of technical climbing including complex routefinding and exposed traverses. While he was not officially guiding on this climb, it was clear to me that Patrick’s leadership and skills enabled us to safely complete the adventure. He led every pitch with the efficiency and thoughtfulness that is characteristic of the top-rated guides in the country. In addition, his spirit and encouragement along the way for a moderate climber such as myself made the climb much more than a race up a mountain, but an enjoyable experience that I will remember the rest of my life.

I would recommend Patrick without a doubt for anyone looking for an adventure in the mountains, particularly if you want to learn the skills necessary to climb on your own in these kinds of settings in the future. Climbing of course, requires more than technical know-how, but a full engagement of the mind, heart, and body. Patrick has both the passion and patience necessary to nurture all three of these important elements in order to help you achieve your goals.

Kevin “Doc” Klein, President
Uncharted Territories In.

For the last 2 years I have invited Patrick Weaver to teach a Movement Skills Course for students in an intermediate climbing class here at Hollins University. On average each student that has participated in the class has had an increase of 2 grades added to their climbing ability. Even more impressive has been Patrick’s capability to teach to a variety of learning styles within the class and give each student a solid foundation and understanding of the material so that they can continue to progress after the seminar is over. It is because of Patrick’s level of professionalism and attention to detail that we have made him a permanent addition to the class. Hands down, this is one of the best values in climbing instruction offered in the field.

Jonathan Guy Owens
Director, Hollins Outdoor Program, Hollins University
Roanoke, Virginia

Patrick,
 My two recent rock climbs with you have really been enjoyable.  I appreciate your consistent emphasis on safety, and even after climbing for fifteen years learned some useful techniques from you.  Looking forward to our next climb.

Fred Bahnson, M.D.

Fantastic experience! Better than I had imagined and the guide was an excellent tutor for my wife who claims to have a fear of heights. I would highly recommend AMI and plan to use their guides again.
Thanks for a great experience.

Chris Salice

I appreciated Patrick Weaver listening to what I wanted to learn and then designing a two-day course around my needs. Patrick also had the wisdom to steer me in slightly different directions when what some items I had requested were things I was not yet prepared to learn because of my background.

Joe Rego

My AMI instructor was able to present the information in a variety of ways, tailoring the course to each student’s individual needs and ensuring that we all completely understood and could perform the material he taught.  I learned more in three days than I have in the past seven years I’ve spent climbing.

Jim Toman

I just wanted to send you a quick note to tell you how much my son and I enjoyed climbing with you at Table Rock on Sunday. We could not have asked for anything more. I greatly appreciated your excellent instruction and professionalism. Thank you.

David Lloyd (Sr.)

Patrick – Thanks for the awesome class. Alison’s climbing and confidence improved dramatically over the course of the day! We both learned a lot and are psyched to do some more climbing. You’re one of the best teachers I’ve had – for any subject.

William Myers

I would encourage all novice climbers to use AMI because they were friendly, attentive and very knowledgeable. We even had teenagers that enjoyed the experience!!!

Susie Rhein
I was placing a cam when leading a run-out route recently. I used the methods you taught me about gear placement while setting the protection. The cam placement held a 25 foot lead fall and none of my protection pulled out. I am sure what you taught me gave me the skill to make a solid, perhaps life-saving placement. Thanks.

Danny McCracken

My experience with AMI was nothing short of outstanding! My guide, Patrick, drew on a wealth of experience and provided me with excellent feedback during my SPI exam.

Chris Erwin