Meet Sandeep: The New Owner Of Ascent Outdoors

2019 has been a year of ups and downs for us here at Ascent Outdoors. It’s no secret that the sudden closure of our shop came as a shock to many, but we are happy to be getting back on our feet after reopening under new ownership. Ascent Outdoors was acquired by local entrepreneur, Sandeep Nain. The impact and response from the local outdoor community has been incredible and we are happy to be serving Ballard and the Greater Seattle Area again!

Sandeep exploring the Cascades

So who is Sandeep? Well, he’s actually been in the outdoor industry for a while. After coming to the Seattle from India in 2005 for a tech job, he discovered a place where he could find time to climb on the weekends and still work full-time. After working for many Seattle tech companies, he decided to start his own business in 2014, a mountain guide service called Miyar Adventures. Sandeep and his company led trips across the Northwest and around the world, including Mount Kilimanjaro (Tanzania), Machu Picchu and Nepal.

Sandeep and Miyar Adventures guides at Mount Kilimanjaro

After hearing about Ascent Outdoors sudden closure, Sandeep was eager to get the business up and running again. While his priority is to maintain the unique culture and long time local flavor of the shop, Sandeep hopes to instill a greater focus on diversity into the climbing and outdoor community.  He hopes to continue Ascent Outdoors as a welcoming environment for everyone not just to shop for gear, but also as a place where people can come to talk about the outdoors, and to foster a sense of community.

Sandeep climbing Imja Tse, better known as Island Peak, in Nepal

 Sandeep hired most of the shops personable and knowledgeable staff.  With their help, we will continue to be a community driven establishment, supporting our customers with fun and educational events as well as supporting local organizations that keep our industry thriving.

 

Photo by Truc Allen

Sandeep lives a busy life from guiding, climbing, owning 3 local businesses, and being a father, but if you see him in the shop be sure to say hi!