JD Dryer
I was raised by Madison hippies on a steady diet of Kurt Vonnegut and Art-House Cinema. My family imbued in me a deep appreciation for the natural world and trans-formative personal experiences.
After high school I hitchhiked to Alaska (twice), worked as a sous chef, collected comic books and sometimes attended college. I've been a professional educator for nearly three decades, working as a wilderness trip leader, ropes course instructor, high school teacher and rock climbing guide.
My wife Greta and I courted over a series of picnics, then honeymooned in New Zealand. We have an awesome daughter (who is an excellent climbing guide) and we love family ski vacations. In between the adventures of family, teaching and guiding I race cyclocross and work on my "trad dad" skills. I'm happiest outdoors, either trying some new skill or napping in a hammock.
client feedback
“The best part was the flexibility our guide had in terms of arranging for the day of climbing. A nice variety of routes that allowed for growth as climbers and built confidence in our abilities but also challenged our abilities. This was our first guided climb and I don’t think I’d change anything.
Jerry was exactly the kind of instructor I prefer. Engaged, thoughtful, knowledgeable, and conversational.”
“Jerry did an awesome job communicating, working with my students, and providing me with information prior to our arrival that made traveling and arriving at Devils Lake a lot easier and smoother than expected. I appreciated his emphasis on safety and I was very thankful for his help/expertise!”
CERTIFICATIONS
PHD Candidate in Educational Leadership
AMGA Single Pitch Instructor
Wilderness First Responder