scott iwamoto

AMGA SPI // WFr // GSG GUIDE

Scott's first interaction with climbing was in the early 90’s during a quick stop at the REI in San Jose, CA. He was able to top out a couple routes and it made a lasting impression on him over the coming years. His next attempt wasn’t until 2010 when a friend encouraged him to join Vertical Hold Climbing Gym in San Diego.

Scott quickly immersed himself in the climbing community and began going outdoors to the local crags, Mission Gorge, Mount Woodson and eventually making trips to Joshua Tree, NP. Scott progressed to traditional climbing fairly quickly with the encouragement of his friends, the community and an unknown local in Joshua Tree by the name of Sue. The story goes... "Sue checked our gear placements and gave his stamp of approval by yanking on them and encouraging us with “you will not die” repeatedly". From there things progressed to  Bishop, Tahquitz, and the Sierra. His most notable climb to date is the Regular Route on Fairview Dome in Tuolumne Meadows (5.9, Grade III, 12 Pitches, 1000'). He and GSG Ambassador Stan Smith swapped leads and finished with their “Irregular” variation as Scott did some “exploratory” route finding towards the top. 

When he’s not climbing he enjoys all things outdoors. From surfing/ body surfing to exploring nature with his family on those long walks to nowhere, he continues to experience as much as he can. Scott is certified AMGA Single Pitch Instructor and holds a Wilderness First Responder certification.