Ryan DeLena

Ryan DeLena transforms pain into purpose through extreme mountain adventures that redefine what's possible.

From surviving hundreds of restraints in therapeutic institutions as a child to becoming the first person to ski every documented line in New Hampshire's Presidential Range, Ryan's story is one of radical transformation. When his father first put him on skis, it sparked a journey from institutional trauma to conquering some of the world's most challenging terrain—including expeditions to Svalbard, Antarctica, and Baffin Island.

Today, Ryan is a professional mountaineer, Vermont State University graduate, and Elan Athlete Team member working toward becoming a professional ski guide. Through his memoir Without Restraint (Falcon Press, 2023) and social media platforms, he shares his journey from institutional abuse to mountain freedom, inspiring thousands to discover outdoor adventure as a pathway to recovery.

As a mental health advocate, Ryan proves that the mountains don't just challenge our bodies—they can heal our souls.