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I served as a Park Ranger at Glacier National Park for 13 years, where I protected park visitors
and resources, and had the honor of serving as the park’s first official Wilderness Manager. I
have spent years exploring Glacier’s backcountry, including winter backcountry ski trips and am
intimately familiar with the park’s natural and cultural resources and best practices necessary
to ensure a safe and responsible experience in Glacier.
My Park Ranger journey began here in 1977 in the years that pre-dated the Alaska National
Interest Lands Conservation Act that established Katmai National Park and Preserve in 1980. I
am intimately familiar with the Brooks Camp Area, the Savonoski River canoe/kayak loop, the
Outer Coast, and particularly the Valley of 10,000 Smokes. I’ve spent over 150 days exploring
the Valley of 10,000 Smokes and attributed my experiences in its wild volcanic landscape as the
source of my wilderness ethos.
As former Chief Park Ranger of one of America’s preeminent wilderness parks, I know the
park’s wild rivers, tundra, and peaks deeply. I’ve led and planned trips along the Noatak,
Koyukuk, and Alatna Rivers, into the Arrigetch Peaks area, and along other trailless trekking
routes and am familiar with the logistical challenges associated with visiting this remote area.
I've explored Montana's lesser-known public lands for years, from mountain trails to backroads
and State Parks. I can help travelers find quiet routes, seasonal highlights, off-the beaten path
gems and meaningful ways to experience Montana’s natural and cultural resources beyond the
national parks.
My dream of becoming a park ranger came true in 1977, and I’ve spent the decades since
serving as a steward of America’s wildest places—from the volcanic landscapes of Katmai to the
backpacker mecca of Glacier National Park, to the vast Brooks Range of Gates of the Arctic
National Park. I recently retired from the National Park Service after a multi-decade career
focused on protecting park visitors and resources, preserving wilderness character, and
promoting Leave No Trace outdoor ethics.
Over the years, I’ve worked as the Chief Ranger of Gates of the Arctic, the first Wilderness
Manager at Glacier National Park, and the NPS’s national Wilderness Stewardship Program
Manager. I’ve also guided, trained, and advised travelers of all kinds—from first-time
adventurers to experienced wilderness explorers.
I’m here to help you plan trips that are safe, meaningful, and deeply rooted in wilderness
values—whether you’re heading into bear country, preparing for a river trip, or just curious
about how to respectfully experience these extraordinary places.
Every year, I make a solo backcountry ski trip into the wilderness of Glacier—it keeps me
connected to the land I’ve worked to protect. I also return regularly to Katmai’s Valley of 10,000
Smokes, where my ranger journey began and where my experiences served as a source for my
wilderness ethos.
I’ve spent over 150 days in that valley alone, always inspired by its wild
volcanic landscape. And in the Arctic, nothing beats floating the Noatak River—a remote, awe-
inspiring river trip that defines the word “wild.”
Click to book a session where youwill be prompted to tell me moreabout your trip, select a time thatworks for you on my calendar, andcomplete payment. It's $60 for a30-minute call.
We'll meet over Zoom video call anddive into your ideas, questions, andgoals. I'll share local tips, itineraryquestions, and guide you to the bestspots.
Within a few days, you'll receive acustom TripGuide in your inbox:
→ A day-by-day itinerary
→ Local recommendations withlinks
→ A shareable, interactive map
All tailored to your travel style—and builtto help you have the best possible trip.
Note: your map and TripGuide are shareable so you can give to your travel companions
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