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California
Utah
Italy
Spain
Illinois

Mary Andino

Profession:

Outdoor Educator | Extreme Athlete

Hi, I’m Mary! I’m a backpacker, climber, writer, and gear nerd. I started hiking as a teenager and have spent the years since chasing long-distance trails, rock faces, and meaningful stories from the backcountry. When I’m not climbing or out on trail, I write for publications like Backpacker, Climbing, and Outside, covering everything from new ultralight gear to first-person trail narratives.

As a solo female backpacker, I care deeply about safety, preparation, and helping people build confidence outdoors. I regularly take first-timers climbing and backpacking, and I love helping them move past intimidation into pure awe. Whether you’re heading to the Camino, planning a quiet route through Joshua Tree, or picking your first backpack, I’d love to help.

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Arizona
Utah
California
Peru

Codell Norman

Profession:

Professional Tour Guide | Wilderness First Responder | Military Service

Hey, I’m Codell. I grew up in the Southwest and, after serving in the military, knew I needed a life built around the outdoors. I started guiding Grand Canyon trips over a decade ago—and never left. Today, I’m the Senior Operations Coordinator for the largest commercial hiking program in the U.S., but I still light up every time I get to talk trip planning, logistics, and routes with someone who’s excited about the desert.

I’ve guided over 100 backcountry expeditions in the Grand Canyon and surrounding parks and have helped travelers from all backgrounds—including solo hikers, families with kids, first-timers, and extreme athletes—find their way in this landscape. If you’re curious about the canyon, desert gear, permits, or just want to figure out what’s realistic for your group, I’m happy to help.

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New Hampshire
Maine
Massachusetts
Colorado
California

Andreas Frese

Profession:

Outdoor Educator | Wilderness First Aid Certified | Trail Creator

Hi, I’m Andreas! I’ve lived out of my truck, mapped out long-distance trails, hiked thousands of miles across five continents, and led groups ranging from first-timers to seasoned hikers. For me, nature has always been more than scenery—it’s where I feel grounded, energized, and alive.

Though my career has taken me in other directions, the outdoors has been my lifelong classroom. I’ve led group trips, volunteered as a trail steward, and helped dozens of friends plan everything from quick getaways to international treks. If you’re dreaming big—whether that means your first solo hike or an epic Andes expedition—I’m here to help you make it happen.

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Maine
Utah
North Carolina

Stephanie Hatley

Profession:

Outdoor Educator

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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Norway
Switzerland
France
Denmark
Wyoming

Andie Cornish

Profession:

Outdoor Educator | Professional Trail Runner

Hi, I’m Andie! I grew up in Jackson, Wyoming, with the Tetons as my backyard and playground. I now travel the world as a professional trail runner and elite ski mountaineer—chasing big peaks, wild trails, and the kind of exhaustion that leaves you deeply fulfilled.

I studied environmental science at the University of Vermont and now work with the Teton Backcountry Alliance as a Teton Pass Ambassador, promoting responsible recreation, assisting backcountry users, and supporting rescue efforts. From racing in Switzerland to ski-touring in Norway and biking across Utah, I love helping people push themselves while staying safe, grounded, and joyful in the outdoors.

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Utah
Arizona
Georgia
Colorado

Bridget Murray

Profession:

Park Ranger | Outdoor Recreation Planner

I stumbled into the outdoor world by accident—landing a seasonal job in Moab at 23 with more curiosity than experience. Since then, I’ve built a career in public lands, guiding myself (and later, others) through some of the most awe-inspiring places in the West.

My background includes seasons with the National Park Service as a science and resource ranger, and now I work as an outdoor recreation planner for the Bureau of Land Management in Utah. My work has ranged from writing interpretive content and permit systems to mapping obscure campsites, designing signage, and partnering with local guides.

I know what it’s like to enter this world without a roadmap. I taught myself how to backpack, raft, climb, and navigate remote places—and now I love helping others feel welcomed, informed, and included. Whether you’re planning a solo trip, juggling family logistics, or venturing out for the very first time, I can help you craft something that actually works for your crew.

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Wyoming
Montana
Idaho
Colorado
Arizona

Christine Kesser

Profession:

Park Ranger | Active Guide

The outdoors has shaped who I am. I fell in love with wild spaces at 16, climbing my first real mountain in New Hampshire, and I’ve been chasing that connection ever since—from summiting Denali to meditating in Bali.

I’ve guided in Grand Teton, Yellowstone, Denali, and Rocky Mountain National Parks, served as a ranger in Arches and Canyonlands, and written everything from Falcon trail guides to Nat Geo map descriptions. I bring both deep field knowledge and a thoughtful, human approach to planning.

Whether you’re a solo traveler, part of a multi-generational family, or training for your next big adventure, I’m here to listen, encourage, and help you feel ready for whatever the trail brings. I also teach yoga and coach wellness, which helps me meet people wherever they are.

When I’m not guiding, you’ll find me writing, baking, or curled up with a book and my yellow lab, Nala.

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Nepal
Peru
Argentina
Utah
California

Sunny Stroeer

Profession:

Profesional Guide, Outdoor Educator, Extreme Athlete, Gear Expert

Hi, I'm Sunny! I’m a record-setting adventure athlete, backcountry guide, and expedition leader who thrives in the wildest, most remote places on Earth. From speed records in the Grand Canyon to leading all-women summits in the Andes, my life’s work is helping people push their limits—and discover what they’re truly capable of in the outdoors.

I’m also the first woman to ski the full 1,000-mile Iditarod Trail. (Yes, really.) And when I’m not in Alaska, you’ll find me guiding mountaineering expeditions in the Andes, running Dreamland Safari Tours in Utah, or leading high-altitude adventures through AWE Expeditions, my women-focused expedition company.

Whether you’re planning your first backpacking trip or an alpine traverse at altitude, I’m here to help you prepare, get stoked, and go farther than you thought possible.

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Mexico
Canada
Oregon
Utah
Washington

Kellie Freitas

Profession:

Professional Guide

Hi, I’m Kellie! I quit my 9-to-5 to climb full-time, living on the road for years and exploring some of the best crags in North America. From Smith Rock to Moab, El Potrero Chico to Squamish, I’ve climbed all over and love helping others plan their own climbing trips—whether it’s finding the best routes, avoiding crowds, or getting the beta on van life. If you’re a solo traveler, first-time adventurer, or looking for epic climbing destinations, let’s chat!

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Argentina
New Zealand
Canada
Ireland
Greece

Danielle Maxey

Profession:

Professional Guide

Hi, I’m Danielle! I grew up skiing and hiking in Colorado and built my life around outdoor adventure. I’ve worked as a backcountry ski instructor, outdoor gear expert, and archaeologist, spending my days hiking in some of the most remote landscapes. Whether you’re planning a Rocky Mountain hut trip, a Patagonia backpacking adventure, or your first canyoneering route in Utah, I’d love to help you prepare and feel confident out there.

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Utah
Arizona

Lura Snow

Profession:

Professional Guide

Hi, I’m Lura! I’ve spent my entire life exploring the outdoors, from childhood camping trips to 16 years as a professional guide across Utah and Arizona. Now, as the Utah Operations Manager for a local trekking company, I oversee multi-day backpacking and basecamp trips through the region’s most stunning landscapes, including Zion, Bryce Canyon, Arches, and the Grand Canyon.

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North Carolina
Tennessee
Utah
Maine
Georgia

Mary Leavines

Profession:

Professional Guide

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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Ecuador
Colombia
Peru
Iceland
Canada

Katie Klos

Profession:

Professional Guide

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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Colorado
Utah
Wyoming
California
Arizona

Kate Sedrowski

Profession:

Outdoor Educator, Professional Guide

Hey, I’m Kate! I’m a climber, outdoor writer, and adventure coach with experience across Colorado, Utah, Wyoming, California, and Arizona. I create trail guides, gear reviews, and climbing resources, and I’m an AMGA-certified Single Pitch Instructor. I also work with first-time adventurers and women over 60 to help them feel confident outdoors. Whether you’re planning a solo trip, a climbing adventure, or just want help getting started, I’d love to share what I’ve learned.

Nearly a decade ago, I fell head over heel hooks for climbing and moved to Colorado—without ever having set foot in the state—because the mountains were calling. Now, my life revolves around outdoor adventures, both in my free time and as a freelance writer in the outdoor space.

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Chad
Jordan
Mexico
Thailand
Greece

Dakota Walz

Profession:

Extreme Athlete, Wilderness First Responder, Outdoor Educator

Hey, I’m Dakota! I’m a  climber, wilderness EMT, and solo adventurer with experience across Jordan, Chad, Thailand, Mexico, Greece, and the U.S. While much of my time is spent on big climbs and remote expeditions, I also love helping people navigate more approachable hikes, scenic routes, and cultural experiences—especially in Thailand, where I spent months exploring by motorbike. Whether you’re planning a climbing trip, an off-the-beaten-path adventure, or just looking for insight into local trails and towns, I’d love to help you prepare for whatever’s ahead.

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Costa Rica
Thailand
Vietnam
New Zealand
Montana

Maria Lally

Profession:

National Park Ranger | Professional Guide

Hi, I'm Maria! I got my start in the outdoors the same way a lot of people do—family trips to national parks. But it wasn’t until I hiked to Vernal Falls in Yosemite that I realized how much I loved it. That first hike led to thousands more, and eventually, a career as a Park Ranger and outdoor educator at some of the country’s most iconic national parks, including Glacier, Grand Canyon, and Rocky Mountain. If you’re planning a national park trip and need help navigating seasonal conditions, permits, trail choices, or even picking which park to visit, I’ve got you covered.

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