Brandon Emery
Having grown up in Rapid City, Brandon has spent a considerable amount of time tromping and exploring in the Black Hills. Brandon learned to climb in the Needles in 2011, and began his guiding career at Sylvan Rocks in 2018.
Brandon graduated from the University of Wyoming with a BS in Psychology and minors in Outdoor Leadership, Environment/Natural Resources and Sociology. Post graduation, Brandon returned to the Black Hills in the spring of 2020 to continue guiding. Soon after returning, Brandon found himself fulfilling his lifelong dream of owning and operating Sylvan Rocks. In October of 2023, Brandon also purchased the South Dakota Outdoor Shop, an outdoor gear shop in Custer. Brandon operates Sylvan Rocks out of the gear shop, and continues to grow the two businesses together as one.
Whether he is at work or out tromping around in the forest, you are certain to find Brandon accompanied by his trusty companion, Khayyam. Khayyam is a German Shepherd mixed with 17 other breeds, but most of all is overflowing with love and excitement to greet every person that walks into the store. If you book a climbing trip, you can count on meeting her at the Outdoor Shop while gearing up in the morning!
In the winter you might find Brandon carving turns on the ski slopes, climbing ice around the Hills. When not climbing or skiing, he also enjoys hunting, cooking, going to metal concerts and playing an obligatory game of fetch with Khayyam.
Certifications
AMGA Apprentice Rock Guide
AMGA Single Pitch Instructor
Wilderness First Responder