Although relatively new to the sport of canyoneering. Dennis has an extensive and comprehensive background in all aspects of climbing in mountains and deserts throughout the world.

A highly decorated military veteran of 22 1/2 years, he served as a special forces combat paramedic (PJ) in the US Air Force. There he was formally trained as a paramedic and received the best training in the world in technical mountain climbing, mountaineering, mountain / desert / arctic / jungle / water survival and search and rescue. He was a qualified  team leader, instructor and evaluator.

Dennis has vast experience in planning and executing training and real-time operations in each of these areas. He has made winter ascents on Mt. Whitney, Mt. Shasta, Mt. Hood, Mt. Lassen and trained 3 years for an ascent on Mt. McKinley before the operation was cancelled by the USAF.

Additionally, he has planned and executed numerous desert training and rescue operations throughout the the Southwestern United States, Africa and Middle East.

With all this professional training, real-time operational experience and search and rescue skill, canyoneering is a natural fit for Dennis and TPC Sports / Canyoneering Utah.

Dennis insists "Safety is paramount. Nothing is more important than the safety of the team. I would rather cancel a trip or turn back before compromising the health or safety of a team member. There will always be another day to canyoneer."

Jerel has a love and passion for technical climbing. He spends much of his spare time climbing at an indoor climbing facility as well as nearby Rock Canyon.

First introduced to climbing by his father, Jerel new this was the sport for him. The the physical and mental challenge the sport brings, fuel his thirst and passion to learn and train as much as he can.

He is a serious prodigy to the sport of canyoneering. Jerel is always looking for ways to develop his canyoneering skills and knowledge.

Jerel loves canyoneering and spends much of his personal time researching and planning  canyoneering routes and trips. He thrills at introducing new people to the sport and volunteers his time teaching and training youth in this sport.

Jake

Jake is our newest and youngest guide on the team. He's a Labrador Retriever who absolutely loves canyoneering. Jake is at home in the canyons and takes full advantage of every water hole we come to. In fact, he is usually the first in the water and last out. He also loves to explore the surroundings and especially loves to chase lizards. Additionally, Jake is always up for retrieving anything you want to throw for him to fetch.

Although a bit apprehensive when it comes to rappelling, he is getting the hang of it and is quickly becoming a seasoned canyoneer. Up leading, climbing and swimming are his specialty. You will typically find Jake leading the hike unless he comes to an impasse requiring assistance to negotiate.