Discover Maine Climbing and Beyond
with Professional Climbing Guide Ryan Howes
Northern Vertical guarantees memorable climbing adventures in Maine and beyond. Every experience is personalized to meet your goals and delivers the highest professional standard in the industry. Owner and guide Ryan Howes, served as head guide of three New England climbing guide services before opening Northern Vertical in 2015. Ryan has climbed in Maine for 25 years and brings 15 years of professional guiding, mountain rescue, route development and stewardship to your Maine climbing adventure.
Who climbs with Ryan?
All ages, abilities and first time climbers
Transitioning from climbing gym to the crags of Maine and beyond
Seeking complete climbing instruction: top-roping, leading, multi-pitch, and rescue
Desire to climb classic objectives and personalized, multi-day climbing expeditions in Maine and beyond
Climbing Adventure in Maine
comes complete with video
This short film below captures the heart of backcountry rock climbing in Maine. Watch as Ryan narrates, films and guides his guest Bob on the premiere rock climbing route the “Armadillo” on Katahdin, Maine’s tallest mountain and the northern terminus of the Appalachian Trail in Baxter State Park.
Why Climb in Maine with Ryan?
what northern vertical guests say
“Ryan is a deep and soulful person who cares about his clients and their state of wellness. He uses climbing as a vehicle for personal betterment. He's an elite climber but also a good dude who gives you your money's worth!” —Russ K
Stepping outside my comfort zone
Apart from the thrill of accomplishing our objective, strength training to increase good health, two things stood out to me that day: the first is obvious - his expertise. At every step along the way he made sure I understood what we were doing and why. It quickly became apparent not only is he a highly qualified guide but a willing and eager teacher. The other quality I noticed, which stands out to this day, is his ability to get me to step outside my comfort zone.
—Joel B
Lost 60 pounds
10 years ago if you told me I would be standing on the summit of one of the most iconic peaks in the lower 48, I would have laughed as I took a bite into my double bacon cheeseburger. I was 260 lbs and very unhealthy. As a result working with Ryan to make changes in my diet and exercise I had more energy, more drive to be outside and be the best I could be. I now weighed in at 200 lbs!
—Matt M
