
A.J. Dudek
Estes Park, CO
Fly-Fishing Guide
A.J. Dudek grew up in N.E. Wisconsin where he enjoyed hunting, fishing, and spending time in Creation. Originally learning how to fish with worms and spinners, A.J. moved out to Colorado where he started learning the art of fly angling. Fly-fishing became a true passion and the next few years were spent teaching and guiding in Durango, CO and Estes Park, CO. Working in fly shops all over the country has allowed A.J. to become an accomplished guide, fly tier, and educator. His first love is trout, but A.J. enjoys fishing for river small mouth, carp, steelhead, and is hoping to get into some saltwater angling. A graduate of Moody Bible Institute, and a newly wed, A.J. and his wife Jen and pup Stryder now reside in Estes Park, CO. Being the founder/director of First Adventure, A.J. is hoping to see the business grow and expand nationally at some point.

Matt Gaither
Moscow, ID
Backpacking
A recent graduate of the University of Idaho's English program, Matt Gaither has been guiding backpacking trips in the Weminuche Wilderness of Colorado for the past four summers for Kanakuk Kamps and The Expedition. Between school and jobs as a farmer, projectionist, and carpenter he has enjoyed opportunities to explore the Northwest that he has called home for the past six years, as well as two trips to southern Utah's canyon country. Most recently, Matt has visited the Eagle Cap Wilderness in Oregon, the North Cascades, the Oregon Coast, and Mount Rainier. Matt currently resides in Moscow, ID.
Shannon Benton
Estes Park,CO
Climbing
A true Colorado native, Shannon Benton has been climbing and in search of some of the best bouldering, and top roping routes in the country. Having climbed with some great professionals, Shannon has established himself as one of the top bouldering athletes in the country. Having traveled from Kentucky to Texas to climb, Shannon has experienced a lot of the best climbing this country has to offer. Currently Shannon is sponsored by Mad Rock and was invited to be a judge at one of the largest climbing competitions in the country. His experience as a climber, teacher, and trainer makes Shannon a great asset to First Adventure. His love for Christ and sense of humor can make for a great day on the rock. Shannon will be joined by our youngest guide Joseph Weissmen who has become a great climber and has experienced climbing and bouldering in New Zealand, Australia, and of course the mountains of Colorado.