North Carolina

Hi, I’m Sydney! I’ve always found peace in the outdoors, and I’ve built a life and career helping others connect with it too. I currently serve as an environmental education coordinator in Georgia, and I’ve previously worked as a National Park Ranger in both South Dakota and North Carolina.

I’m passionate about helping people of all ages feel welcome and confident outside—whether you’re a parent bringing young kids, an older traveler returning to hiking, or someone venturing out solo. I’ll meet you where you’re at, and help you plan a trip full of beauty, learning, and discovery.

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Hi! I’m Stephanie—a full-time traveler, outdoor lover, and mom of two. Since 2021, my family has been on the road in our RV, exploring national parks, working seasonal jobs, and soaking in the beauty of the U.S. together. We’ve hiked hundreds of trails with elementary-age kids, and we know the highs (and challenges!) of planning great trips as a family.

My background is in education and ministry, and I’ve always loved connecting with people. Whether you’re a weekend warrior, summer road-tripper, or curious about full-time travel, I’d love to help you feel confident, inspired, and excited for the road ahead.

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Hi, I’m Owen! I’ve hiked over 13,000 miles since 2015, including some of the most rugged and rewarding long-distance trails in the world. Whether you’re planning your first backpacking trip or a thru-hike, I can help with route selection, gear, logistics, and trail confidence so you can focus on the adventure, not the stress.

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Hi, I’m Mary! In 2022, I achieved a lifelong goal of thru-hiking the entire Appalachian Trail as a solo female hiker. Since then, I’ve completed 650+ miles of the Pacific Crest Trail, owned and operated a thru-hiker hostel, and guided backpacking trips across the Blue Ridge Mountains and beyond. I’m passionate about helping solo hikers and first-time adventurers feel prepared, safe, and excited to take on the trail. Whether you’re planning your first overnight trip or looking to tackle a long-distance trek, I’d love to help you plan your journey.

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Hi, I’m Katie! I’ve spent years guiding adventure travel across Iceland, Peru, New Zealand, and beyond, helping travelers of all experience levels explore with confidence. Whether you’re navigating the Inca Trail, the fjords of New Zealand, or the Andes Mountains, I can help you plan a safe and unforgettable adventure, no matter your skill level.

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Hi, I’m Sophia. I grew up in Western North Carolina, where hiking and running through the Blue Ridge Mountains became my happy place. After spending seven years guiding with Backroads Travel, I’ve had the chance to explore and lead active trips across the Alps, Scotland, and Hawaii. Whether you’re hiking the Tour du Mont Blanc, trekking the West Highland Way, or exploring the Southern Appalachians, I love sharing insights to make your adventure unforgettable.

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Hi, I’m Maureen. I grew up in Idaho with the mountains and rivers as my playground, which led me to a career in adventure travel. I’ve spent over a decade guiding and designing outdoor experiences across Ireland, Indonesia, Hawaii, and the U.S. Southeast. Whether it’s cycling quiet backroads in County Kerry, hiking jungle trails in Bali, or paddling Hawaii’s coastline, I love helping travelers find the best outdoor experiences.

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The outdoors has shaped every chapter of my life. Growing up in Boise, Idaho, I was lucky to have nature at my doorstep. I spent my childhood exploring the foothills and rivers, always drawn to the feeling of freedom that comes with moving through a landscape. That love for the outdoors eventually led me to guiding, where I’ve spent years helping others experience the beauty of adventure travel firsthand.

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Expertise & Interests:

🌍 Solo & Multi-Generational Travel – I’ve led trips for all types of travelers, from solo adventurers to families with mixed skill levels.

🏕️ Cycling & Multi-Sport Travel – If you love mixing it up between biking, hiking, and paddling, I can help craft the perfect itinerary.

🚴‍♂️ Scenic & Off-the-Beaten-Path Routes – Whether in Ireland, Indonesia, or the U.S., I know the best trails to avoid the crowds.

🥾 Adventure Travel Planning – Looking for a trip that balances adventure, culture, and downtime? I can help.

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