Big Willi Mountaineering Company - Lone Pine, California

Gaylene Kinzy

Blair was very friendly and attentive. I happen to like his hats because they fit larger heads better and do not give me headaches (health condition). The layout and energy of the shop is really fun and laid back, stands out from all the other snooty shops in the Valley. Very much reminds me of a 90s skateboard shop.

Mike Houlihan

🏔️ Holy smokes, folks! If you haven't been to Big Willi Mountaineering Co, you're missing out on the Everest of outdoor gear shops! 🧗‍♂️

Let me tell you about Blair, the owner and resident mountain guru. This guy isn't just knowledgeable; he's like a walking, talking Sierra Nevada encyclopedia with a sense of humor sharper than an ice axe! 🧠🗻

Picture this: You walk in, thinking you're just gonna grab some gear, and BAM! 💥 Blair hits you with more mountain beta than you can shake a trekking pole at. He's got stories that'll make you laugh so hard, you'll need supplemental oxygen! 😂🌬️

But wait, there's more! This dude is more generous than a mountain goat sharing its salt lick. 🐐 Free beer with purchase? Check. Decals? You betcha. And get this – if you conquer Mt. Whitney, he'll hook you up with a free coozy that proudly proclaims "I mounted Whitney." Talk about a conversation starter at your next campfire! 🔥🍺

The shop itself? It's like Santa's workshop for outdoor enthusiasts. Every nook and cranny is packed with top-notch gear that'll make you want to quit your day job and become a full-time mountain dweller. 🎅🏼🎒

Blair's passion for the Sierras is more contagious than a yawn in a tent full of exhausted hikers. By the time you leave, you'll be planning your next three expeditions and considering naming your firstborn "Sequoia" or "Half Dome." 👶🌲

So, do yourself a favor and make Big Willi Mountaineering Co your basecamp for all things outdoorsy. Trust me, your inner mountain goat will thank you, and you'll be back faster than you can say "Leave No Trace!" 🐐🏃‍♂️

Remember, in the words of the great Blair himself (probably): "Life's short, buy the gear, climb the mountain, and don't forget to breathe at 14,000 feet!" 🧘‍♂️🏔️

Five out of five carabiners, would definitely clip in again! 🔩🔩🔩🔩🔩

Cara Barnett

This review is incredibly overdue -- Big Willi's owner, Blair, helped us with logistics for a trip to Mt. Whitney basecamp last April. He took the time to answer all our questions and recommend supplies. He is the best!! He is incredibly knowledgable about mountaineering and the region, and is willing to go above and beyond for his customers. Big Willi Mountaineering is the only place we will go for any and all mountaineering needs in Lone Pine! As a bonus, since last April, my Big Willi hat has accompanied us on many more slogging adventures

David Corvi

We walked in looking for last minute gear before attempting Mount Whitney. We left with what we needed plus some amazing hats, a free beer, and plenty of positive energy we needed to Mount Whitney. Great small business in Lone Pine. Must stop!

Sincerely,

The Slog Queen and two Slog Signore

Nikolai Paloni

Such an epic shop. Blair has everything you need to thrive in the sierras. Everything is tested and top notch. Love supporting shops like these. They also carry Ombraz Armless Sunglasses!

David Barnum

Big Willi Mountaineering is the place to go for your mountaineering needs!

The owner, Blair, is an avid mountaineer, friendly, very knowledgeable, helpful, and well connected to the Eastern Sierra mountaineering community!

He is a great source of information about current conditions, and an expert in mountaineering gear!

During our time in the Kearsarge Lakes area, my daughter and I talked about our great experience at Big Willi, and made a plan to go back again when we came out.

We had purchased some items from Big Willi that we did not need or use, as we did not reach the location and altitude we had planned, and Blair was happy to allow us to exchange them for some other items we knew we would use later.

Blair offered us coffee in the morning - that is a first ever for me in a mountain shop!

Bought a custom Big Willie sun hoodie with store logo and wore it driving home. Works great!

This is the store and experience you have been hoping to find!

Andre Matthews

Unofficial visitor center of the Eastern Sierra and simultaneously the best gear shop the region.

Like the outdoors? Like great people? Need intel on mountain conditions? Forget a trekking pole at home 4 hours away?

Go see Blair. You'll live and die much happier life. Seriously.

Brandon Keipp

We came into Lone Pine with the goal to summit Mt. Whitney. Upon further inspection, we realized we could use some more gear. We were recommended Big Willi and we’re pleasantly surprised when greeted by the owner. Not only did he help us with the supplies that we needed, but he was genuinely invested in our needs and trip as a whole. For the following days, Blair gave us tips and advice that greatly assisted our trip such as routes and possible campsites. If you are in the Lone Pine area, Big Willi Mountaineering Co is the place to go. Blair will assist you to the best of his abilities and make sure you get the most out of your experience. Highly recommend.