Nicole Meyer - Owner

Hello! I’m Nicole McKinnon! I love living, working, and playing in the beautiful and rugged mountains of eastern Kentucky, where I have lived for almost 30 years. I have been the owner and operator of Southeast Mountain Guides since 2017 and have been part of the company since its inception in 2001, when my parents started the via ferrata, climbing guide service, BBQ restaurant, and bed & breakfast.

I managed the via ferrata and guide service for 8 years before purchasing the company and have been an AMGA-certified climbing instructor since 2004. One of the things I love most about Southeast is the opportunity to connect with people — both clients and crew — while helping create meaningful outdoor experiences that encourage growth, confidence, and authentic connection.

I also deeply enjoy the diversity, challenge, creativity, and reward that comes with operating a small business and leading an incredible team.

Jesus Christ is the foundation of my life and influences how I approach leadership, relationships, business, and climbing. In April of 2026, I married my husband, Andrew McKinnon, and we are grateful to continue building life together here in the Red River Gorge community and beyond.

Outside of work, I simply enjoy being outdoors, staying physically active, spending time in community, and drinking hot black tea from my favorite mugs — all of which somehow seem to have broken handles .