Paddy O’Mara

Location Red Rock, NV

Role Guide

About Paddy O’Mara

Paddy fell in love with climbing in the lush Appalachian Mountains of North Carolina. He learned to climb under the feathered wings of peregrines and slab masters on granite domes like Laurel Knob, and traditional gurus that thrived with tricky protection in Linville Gorge and Ship Rock, and even bouldering legends that live a quiet, humble life in the mossy, rhododendron forests… all enjoying the milk and honey of climbing in the southeast. He began studying outdoor experiential education in 2013 in Boone, NC which eventually led to him guiding in Maine on the sea cliffs of Acadia National Park for six summers. After each season ended Paddy would pack up his trusty Subaru and hit the road for most of the year, following the sun and infinite climbing destinations that promised a life of awe and beauty, banjo pikin’ and a loving community. Guiding for Paddy is centered in connection and listening. Listening to each unique song that we all have to sing; and connection to our body and heart, the wild, the sunrise and sunset, the vast mystery awaiting our attention, the ability we all hold to overcome fear and challenge, and to each other in search of something bigger than ourselves. Paddy began guiding in Red Rock for The Mountain Guides in Spring of 2022 as the Mojave encouraged him to embrace all the lessons it has to offer.

Certifications:

  • - AMGA Certified Rock Guide
  • - Wilderness First Responder
  • - CPR

Testimonials

  • Had a brilliant experience climbing at Red Rocks. The overall reservation process with TMG was super easy and everything was very timely. Our guide Paddy WAS THE BOMB !! Definitely one of my favorite climbing guides out there. Incredibly patient, very tuned in to our needs, styles and helping drive route selection while making sure we were having a good time. Paddy definitely ELEVATED our overall experience. He also did a fantastic job keeping track of the weather and making sure we could get our climbs in working around the unpredictable rain/lightning. Paddy was also super knowledgeable about the desert and regaled us with facts about the desert and his travel stories. In short, incredibly entertaining, patient, knowledgeable, safety conscious and a solid A+ guide. Would highly recommend climbing with Paddy again and would do it myself in a heart beat.

    — Akshay
  • Paddy is one of the best guides I've climbed with. He is a natural teacher; I have voluminous notes from the weekend that will serve me well in the future. He is great at explaining the various systems he employs, and does so without ever being patronizing. He also has a great mindful attitude that makes time on the rocks an absolute joy. 100% would love to climb with him again.

  • I have only been out on 5 other trips all novice spanning 20+ years but Paddy was amazing. Really wanted to make sure everyone in the group with diff experience level had a good time and worked with everyone. Made sure the one fearful person in our group realize she was safe. He literally guided her up the mountain next to her and helped her each step of the way. Even helped her remain calm with breathing exercises. Very knowledgable about rock climbing and surrounding area. Would love to go out again with Paddy!

    — My
  • My husband and I wanted to climb Epinephrine in Black Velvet Canyon in Red Rock, but knew we didn't have the skills and experience to do it on our own. We're so grateful to our guide Paddy who made it happen for us. I doubt that most guides would have what it takes to guide a 2:1 on this route. His unwavering enthusiasm and patience got us to the top, and safely back down again. To say it was hard and epic would be a major understatement. It's a day we'll never forget!

    — Sarah G
  • Big thanks for setting me up last minute with Paddy. We had a great day out and he is an excellent, excellent rock guide! Had a lot of fun together and he kept us safe and was super competent and attentive in all aspects of the approach, climb and descent. A real treat climbing with someone who enjoys their job much! JHMG is lucky to have him (-:

    — Greg V
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