The Winter Outdoor Retailer show, although considerably smaller than the summer Expo, still had plenty to keep me excited. The focus is more on winter gear and the paddling sports are absent. I find it a better time to meet people since the pace isn't so busy. I ran into author and mountain guide Brad Johnson of Peaks and Places Travel in Ridgway Colorado. Brad's been guiding in Peru's Cordillera Blanca for 20 years. He is also the author of Classic Climbs of the Cordillera Blanca, an exceptional and beautiful climbing guide to the region. In addition to some incredible climbing, Brad also guides some treks in the Cordillera Blanca, the nearby Cordillera Huayhuash, and in the Inca highlands near Cuzco.

Brad's business partner in Huaraz Peru is Chris Benway who arranges logistics for climbing expeditions. Chris is a master of managing the details so that everything on your trek or climbing expedition comes together flawlessly. He will arrange transportation to the trailhead, cook staff, porters, mule drivers---anything you need. Working with Chris can save you days of frustration and a lot of money in the long run.