Jim Sutherland

Mini Bio

Since 2003, I have had my own guiding business, as well as working in high schools teaching outdoor learning, maths, and computing science. I have guided clients all over the Scottish Highlands in winter and summer, as well as working overseas. This has included hillwalking, mountaineering, rock climbing, ice climbing, mountain biking, and bikepacking. I enjoy seeing my clients skills, confidence and plans grow for their own future trips.

Before moving to the Cairngorms National Park in 2017, I was a key member of the Torridon Mountain Rescue Team and a national trainer for Scotland. I have worked with companies like the BBC and Jack Wolfskin to provide location services and mountain safety. My personal skills, motivation, flexibility, enthusiasm, attention to detail, writing, and photography skills have made me proud to be a guide.

Favourite Place to Play

I am lucky enough to live in one of the world’s biggest ‘sweetie shops’ – the Cairngorms National Park. I can leave my home and be at the edge of the forest and the mountains within an hour; this is one of my favourite places to play.

Not a lot of People Know This

When I was a student in Chicago, I led the McDonald’s Christmas parade dressed as one of Cinderella’s footmen. The parade was broadcast on national TV in the States.