Education
University of Wisconsin-Madison, bachelor’s degree in geography and environmental studies; University of Bristol, master’s degree in human geography
Certifications
Wilderness first responder, Leave No Trace master educator, whitewater rescue technician, recreational rappel operator, remote medical responder
Favorite hobbies
I’ve been really getting into road cycling and bikepacking in the last few years. When not off on a bike ride or tour, I am often dreaming of or planning the next one!
Favorite outdoor achievement
One of the most memorable experiences I had in the outdoors was scaling the east ridge of “Wolf’s Head,” a 10-pitch climb in Wyoming’s Wind River Range. The whole route took over 12 hours, beginning with a 4 am approach to the base of the ridge and ending with a moonlit rappel down the mountainside!
Favorite outdoor memory
There was nothing quite like stargazing on the steep slopes of a volcano during my first season as an Adventure Treks instructor. Our group started to hike up Mount St. Helens through forests at the base of the mountain at around 2 am and only caught glimpses of the stars through the leaves. But once we moved past the treeline, there was a huge expanse of cloudless sky above us. We gazed up in awe at the blazing stars, spent time identifying constellations, and spotted four planets as well: Venus, Jupiter, Saturn, and Mars! I loved the feeling of being so small in the immensity of the universe, and I felt so lucky that we could all be experiencing that moment together.
Favorite place in the world
Wales has a special place in my heart. The south has rugged coastlines, craggy river valleys, gnarled oaks, rolling hills, and picturesque stone villages with hilltop castles. Then further north there are the towering peaks and misty valleys of Eryri National Park all beneath the shadow of its highest peak, Yr Wyddfa. Wales just feels magical!
What are you most looking forward to this summer?
I’m looking forward to being back in a community of people who uplift, encourage, celebrate, and challenge each other, all while exploring some of the most beautiful places in the US and the world.
Previous Adventure Treks trips include British Columbia Challenge and Pacific Northwest Explorer
