Meet Your Guides
Growing up on the coast of Maine meant easy access to stunning climbing spots. We started Equinox Guiding Service with a clear goal: to help more people enjoy the outdoors through climbing, our greatest passion. Camden and Acadia are not just climbing areas; they hold special meaning for us, and we love sharing their beauty with everyone.
Our commitment is to provide amazing climbing experiences in Maine. Our guides are skilled and dedicated to making your adventure fun, and rewarding. We believe climbing can change lives, and we are eager to help you explore this incredible sport.
We do this because we love climbing, and we’re sure that once you try it, you’ll love it too.
See you on the rock!
Equinox Guiding Service Guides
NOAH KLEINER
Noah Kleiner, founder of Equinox Guiding Service, is a passionate outdoor enthusiast with deep roots in Maine. He grew up in Union and now lives in Hope with his wife, Jenn, their daughter, Lyra, and their beloved dog, Cedar. His journey into climbing began in 2006 during an orientation trip at the College of the Atlantic, sparking a lifelong love for the sport.
Noah is a founding member of the Coastal Mountain Search and Rescue (SAR) and has pursued extensive training throughout his career. He is a licensed Maine Guide, AMGA Single Pitch Instructor (SPI) Provider, and Climbing Wall Instructor (CWI) Provider. Additionally, he is a certified AMGA Multi-pitch Instructor and AMGA Ice Instructor, holds a Wilderness First Responder certification from SOLO, and has completed Avalanche Education Level One through the American Institute for Avalanche Education.
Climbing for Noah is not just a sport but a way of life, teaching him invaluable lessons and fostering a deep connection with nature. His philosophy—“before climbing, there was a mountain; while climbing, there was still a mountain; and after climbing, the mountain remains”—guides his personal and professional journey.
Through Equinox Guiding Service, Noah is dedicated to providing unforgettable climbing experiences, inspiring others to explore, appreciate, and respect the outdoors.
Owen Duda
Owen is a passionate and experienced climber based in New Hampshire, eager to spend his time guiding on the scenic cliffs of Maine this season. A recent graduate of Vermont State University, Owen earned a B.S. in Outdoor Education, Leadership & Tourism. It was during his college years that he discovered his love for climbing, laying a solid foundation of skills and knowledge that he now brings into the field.
As an AMGA Single Pitch Instructor, Owen has developed an impressive climbing resume in the Northeast. His climbing adventures have also taken him to the majestic heights of Washington State, the rugged landscapes of Utah, the towering peaks of Colorado, and the stunning cliffs of Nevada. These diverse experiences have enriched his climbing expertise and deepened his passion for the sport.
Owen’s enthusiasm for climbing is matched by his dedication to sharing this love with others. He is thrilled to join Equinox Guiding Service this season, where he looks forward to spreading his knowledge and passion for climbing to those who choose to embark on adventures with Equinox. His goal is to inspire and educate climbers of all levels, helping them to develop their skills and foster a deeper connection with the natural world.
With his extensive experience, educational background, and unwavering enthusiasm, Owen is committed to providing an exceptional climbing experience for all. Whether you’re a beginner looking to learn the ropes or an experienced climber seeking new challenges, Owen is excited to guide you on your journey and share the thrill of climbing in the beautiful state of Maine.
Elias Libby
Elias began climbing during an outdoor leadership class in his junior year of high school, and his passion for the sport has only grown since then. During his freshman year of college, he earned his Climbing Wall Instructor certification and completed his Single Pitch Instructor course, ultimately achieving SPI certification. What began as a recreational activity has become a central part of his life and a potential career path.
Sharing the sport of climbing is a core value for Elias, as he believes that teaching others is the best way to expand the climbing community and encourage people to experience the outdoors. Having spent his entire life immersed in nature, incorporating rock climbing was the final piece to complete his outdoor lifestyle. Looking ahead, Elias is excited to share his experiences and knowledge with others while enjoying the natural beauty of Maine.
Gavin Spilling
Growing up in the breathtaking Adirondacks of New York, I was surrounded by nature’s beauty from a young age. This environment fostered my deep passion for the outdoors, and it’s a love that has only grown stronger over the years. As a junior at Vermont State University, I’m pursuing a major in Outdoor Education Leadership and Tourism, with a concentration in Adventure Education. This program has been instrumental in shaping my skills and knowledge as an outdoor leader.
Throughout my studies, I’ve had the opportunity to immerse myself in various aspects of outdoor leadership. I’ve earned certifications like the AMGA Single Pitch Instructor, which have equipped me with the technical skills and confidence needed to guide and instruct others. My adventures have taken me climbing all over the Northeast, from the rugged cliffs of New Hampshire to the scenic crags of Vermont. I’ve also had the incredible experience of climbing in the diverse landscapes of Nevada, each location adding to my appreciation and understanding of the sport.
What truly drives me is the constant pursuit of learning and growth in the outdoors. There’s always something new to discover, whether it’s a different climbing technique, a unique natural feature, or a new way to connect with the environment. I find immense joy in sharing this passion with others, guiding them through their own journeys of exploration and adventure. There’s something incredibly rewarding about seeing someone’s eyes light up when they reach the top of a climb or when they overcome a challenge they thought was insurmountable.
For me, outdoor education is not just about physical skills but also about fostering a deeper connection with nature and with each other. It’s about teaching respect for the environment and promoting a sustainable approach to enjoying the great outdoors. I look forward to continuing my journey, both as a learner and a leader, and to inspiring others to discover the wonders of nature.
Interns
Looking for a way to share your love of outdoor adventure? In this position you will have the opportunity to ignite a lifelong appreciation of the outdoors through Rock Climbing! As a part of our Rock Climbing Team you will be working with a diverse group of guests providing education and leadership on outdoor rock climbing.