Who is Joseph Hobby?

Two decades of mountain experience

Joseph Hobby founded Wild Paths Guiding in 2017 on a dream to help others live theirs. From rock and ice climbing to backcountry and ski mountaineering, Wild Paths Guiding is designed to help guests feel confident, supported, and capable as they move through wild terrain and accomplish their goals in the mountains.

Before guiding trips across Europe and North America, Joseph built his foundation on the gneiss cliffs of the southern Appalachians. What began as a young climber’s curiosity evolved into years of technical mastery in traditional climbing, mixed terrain, big alpine objectives, and ski mountaineering. Today, he divides his time between Chamonix, France and the western United States, continuing to refine his craft in two of the world’s most iconic alpine regions.

Joseph’s extensive training and experience form the backbone of Wild Paths Guiding and its commitment to exceptional, safety-driven mountain adventures. Joseph Hobby is an IFMGA Licensed Mountain Guide, A3 Avalanche Instructor, AMGA Instructor Team Member, Mountain Athlete, and Outdoor Industry Consultant.

Notable Ascents

  • Guiding the First Ascent of the Peasant Pillar

    400m 6b C22021

  • First Ascent of Mount Mason via Busta Rime

    900m M4 80°2022

  • First Ascent/Descent of Mount Stansfield via Chamo

    1000m 70°2022

  • New route on the Citadel via Borealis Face

    600m 85°2023

  • First Ascent of Rise and Shine via Superfly Couloir

    500m AI5 M6 A22023

  • Significant Ascent by Piolet d'Or with Zach Lovell

    for Rise and Shine and the Citadel2024

  • New route on Mantok 1 via Small Talk Couloir

    1200m M4 70°2024

  • First Ascent/Descent of Mount Charles via Spectre

    1700m 80°2024

Certifications

Certification logo
Certification logo
Certification logo

Partners

Certification logo
Certification logo

Affilliated Guide Services

Certification logo
Certification logo
Certification logo
Certification logo