Meet Outdoorable Experts

For me, travel has always been about connection—between people, cultures, and the places that shape us. I’ve spent the past 15+ years designing and leading itineraries across Europe, South America, and southern Africa, blending world-class dining and active adventure with immersive cultural experiences.

Originally from Slovenia and Croatia, I’ve worked with global travel companies like Backroads as well as boutique agencies, helping clients discover everything from Patagonia’s remote trails to the best late-night tapas in Andalusia. I design trips for curious, thoughtful travelers—especially those seeking something elevated, soulful, and dynamic.

As part of the LGBTQ+ community, I also love helping others feel safe and fully themselves wherever they travel. Whether you’re biking through Tuscany, sipping wine on a cliffside in Montenegro, or dancing to live music in Cape Town, I’m here to help shape something that feels personal, seamless, and full of joy.

I’ve designed and led bespoke adventures across four continents—from vineyard bike rides in France to jungle treks in Brazil, and luxury safaris in Tanzania. After 10 years as a trip leader with Backroads, I founded À la Carte Travel, a boutique travel company where I create every journey from scratch and guide each one myself.

I grew up between Catalonia and Provence, and I’ve spent most of my adult life chasing the feeling of discovery—on a bike, on foot, or tucked into the back of a van somewhere remote. My style of trip design blends local relationships, scenic immersion, physical movement, and a deep respect for each place’s personality.

Whether you want to sip wine after a ride through the Douro Valley, explore the backroads of Switzerland, or plan something ambitious in Bhutan, I’m here to help shape something unforgettable—tailored to your pace, your people, and your story.

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.

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.

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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.

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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.

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.

Hi, I’m David. I’ve been designing customized travel itineraries for individuals and small groups since 1984, with a lifelong passion for southern Europe. I specialize in creating journeys that are deeply personalized—whether that means finding a charming guesthouse tucked into a medieval village or a luxurious five-star retreat famous for its service and style.

Originally from the U.S., I now call Montefalco, Umbria home. After years of planning trips across Italy, Switzerland, Spain, and Great Britain, I decided to live full-time in the region I love most. I help travelers experience the real heartbeat of Italy—mountaintop towns, local vineyards, historic cities—and can also craft seamless adventures across Europe, blending iconic highlights with hidden gems. Whether you’re traveling solo, with family, or planning a special luxury escape, I’m here to design an experience that feels personal, meaningful, and unforgettable.

Hi, I’m Dehn—trail runner, filmmaker, father of five, and lifelong adventurer. I grew up in Lake Tahoe, where backcountry routes and alpine lakes were part of daily life. That love for wild places inspired me to launch Vacation Races, a running event series near national parks—and later, Global Adventures, where I designed multi-day travel experiences that combined endurance, cultural immersion, and unforgettable landscapes.

I’ve led ultramarathons through the desert, family backpacking trips in Yosemite, and youth groups into the wilderness to show them what they’re capable of. My goal? Help people reconnect with nature, reset their perspectives, and walk away with stories they’ll never forget. Whether you’re chasing big summits, planning your first park trip, or navigating the world with your kids in tow—I’m here to help.

Hola! I’m Carlos, born and raised in Valencia, now based on the beautiful island of Mallorca. I’ve spent over 20 years designing and leading exclusive biking and hiking adventures across Spain—specializing in immersive, active journeys that go beyond the usual stops.

As co-founder of The Ventourist, I create custom experiences that connect travelers with Spain’s landscapes, food, and rhythm—whether you’re pedaling through Mallorca’s coastal roads, hiking in the Pyrenees, or sipping wine in La Rioja. I love helping people of all ages and fitness levels explore at their own pace, with just the right balance of challenge and comfort.

If you’re looking for a highly personalized, deeply local outdoor experience in Spain—you’re in the right place.

Hi, I’m Emily! My love for the outdoors started in college with weekend day hikes and photography—and quickly snowballed into something much bigger. I’ve thru-hiked the Pacific Crest Trail, trekked Patagonia’s O Circuit, and explored hundreds of miles of backcountry in the Sierra.

For 6 years, I worked at REI helping people prep for adventures big and small—whether they were gearing up for the John Muir Trail or just starting to car camp. These days, I focus on helping solo travelers, especially women and older adventurers, feel more confident planning their own long-distance hikes and nature-forward getaways. I am currently based in San Francisco, and can help with any urban adventure as well.

Whether you’re dreaming about Yosemite’s Half Dome, the Trans-Catalina Trail, or hiking your first few miles on a longer route—I’d love to help you get there.

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Hi, I’m Haley! My love of wild places began with a road trip to 8 national parks—and turned into a career in conservation, guiding, and outdoor travel. I worked as a forester in Sequoia and Hawai‘i, then spent years as a Park Ranger in Grand Teton and Rocky Mountain National Parks. I’ve advised thousands of travelers on everything from backcountry permits to scenic drives to ranger-led experiences.

After my time in the parks, I shifted into travel planning—specializing in hiking and biking trips across the UK and Ireland, and now coordinating operations for journeys across the American Southwest. Personally, I’ve backpacked the Dolomites, motorbiked the Ha Giang Loop, and dove the Great Barrier Reef—so I love helping people find that same sense of awe on foot, underwater, or wherever the trail leads.

Hi, I’m Magdalene. I grew up in Vermont, where I discovered the joy and adventure of being outdoors—and the sense of freedom and renewal that comes from enjoying time in nature.  

I’ve spent over a decade guiding in national parks, Arctic wildernesses, and remote corners of Scandinavia—and now run a small company offering dog sledding, trekking, and hut-to-hut skiing adventures in Norway and beyond.

Whether you’re planning your first solo trip, bringing a multigenerational crew together, or dreaming of a snowy expedition under the northern lights, I’ll help you design a trip that pushes your limits just enough—and gets you closer to the wild, the quiet, and yourself.

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.

Hi, I’m Kim! I bring decades of experience guiding and designing travel around the world—as an active travel guide leading hiking and biking trips across Europe, working at a scuba dive shop in Indonesia, and an international meetings and events planner. I’ve led travelers through Tuscany’s hill towns, the Swiss Alps’ hidden trails, Ireland’s coastal peninsulas, and Australia’s rainforests—and helped first-time adventurers feel at home around the world.

Today, I bring that wealth of experience into personalized trip design for travelers seeking deeper connection—to a place, to themselves, and to the spirit of exploration. Whether you’re planning a multigenerational journey, a solo trip for self-discovery, or your first big hiking or biking adventure, I’m here to help you feel prepared, confident, and inspired.

In addition to my regional expertise, I can also help travelers navigate broader Europe with ease—offering guidance on everything from hidden train routes to unforgettable local stops across the continent.

I also have a master's degree in nutrition and have a background in art, psychology,  and holistic wellness—which means I care deeply about designing trips that feel good on every level, not just the itinerary.

Hi, I’m Nick. I’m a former thru-hiker, trail guide, and the creator of Pack & Soul, a documentary series about my 2,193-mile journey on the Appalachian Trail. I’ve led backcountry programs for teens, guided first-time hikers, and helped solo travelers find the confidence to get out there—whether it’s their first overnight or a multi-week trek. I believe the outdoors is where we become who we are meant to be. Let’s plan something that moves your body, challenges your spirit, and leaves you with stories worth telling.

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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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 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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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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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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Hey, I’m Zoe! I’ve spent years working as a National Park Ranger, hiking guide, and outdoor educator, helping people experience some of the most incredible landscapes in North America. I know Rocky Mountain, Glacier, and Alaska’s vast wilderness inside and out—from the best trails for all skill levels to scenic drives, glacier adventures, and where to escape the crowds. Whether you’re traveling solo, with kids, or planning a multi-generational trip, I can help you craft the perfect experience in the parks.

I grew up in Colorado, where my love for the mountains started early, but it wasn’t until college that I discovered backpacking and outdoor education. That passion led me to my first role at Rocky Mountain National Park, where I worked as an interpretive ranger and hiked nearly every trail while helping visitors make the most of their trips. From there, I moved on to guiding in Glacier National Park and later worked as a Forest Ranger in Alaska’s Chugach National Forest, assisting travelers in planning everything from glacier hikes to epic road trips across the Last Frontier.

I love helping people find the perfect way to experience the outdoors—whether it’s a first-time adventurer looking for an easy but rewarding hike or a seasoned traveler mapping out a multi-week backcountry expedition. As a queer adventurer, I’ve personally experienced the outdoors as a place of refuge, healing, and connection, and I’m passionate about making sure others feel welcome in these spaces.

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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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Hey, I’m Mel! I grew up hiking and climbing in the Washington Cascades and have spent years guiding, planning trips, and working in search & rescue. I’m passionate about making the outdoors more inclusive and accessible—especially for LGBTQ+ adventurers and those new to outdoor spaces. Whether you’re planning a ski trip, a climbing objective, or a scenic hiking adventure in Washington’s Cascades, I’ll help you plan with accuracy and detail.

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.

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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.‍

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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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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Hi, I’m Sherri. For over a decade, I’ve worked in the adventure travel industry as a guide, trip researcher, and logistics planner. I’ve led and designed trips across Japan, Austria, Czech Republic, Canada, Mexico, and the U.S., with a special love for bikepacking and hiking. Whether it’s helping first-time adventurers or seasoned athletes, I love sharing insights to make outdoor experiences smoother and more rewarding.

The outdoors has been both my escape and my career. It’s where I challenge myself, find clarity, and explore new places—whether on foot, on skis, or on my bike.  But in my own time, I’ve also mapped out and completed multi-day to year-long bikepacking trips, always looking for the next challenge.

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 Cameron! For me, the best way to connect with a place is to move through it—whether that’s hiking, cycling, or even a long city walk that turns into an adventure of its own. I’ve been guiding and exploring for over a decade, and my favorite trips always come down to the same thing: finding the perfect balance between effort and awe.

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I connect to new places through the outdoors—whether it’s hiking a national park, cycling the countryside, or just walking through a city. With years of experience exploring and guiding across New Zealand, Croatia, the U.S., and beyond, I love helping people plan active adventures that go beyond the usual routes. If you’re heading to New Zealand’s South Island, the Dalmatian Coast, or iconic U.S. national parks like Yellowstone or Yosemite, I’ve got you covered.

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Hi, I’m Amy. I’m an ultramarathoner, trail runner, and mountain athlete with a love for pushing limits in some of the world’s most incredible landscapes. I’ve run ultras across Mexico, England, and Guatemala and climbed peaks like Pico de Orizaba. Whether you’re gearing up for your first endurance event, planning a long-distance trail run, or just looking to balance adventure with recovery, I’m happy to share my experience.

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For me, the outdoors is about movement, challenge, and mental clarity.

I grew up in Yorkshire, where I spent my childhood running through the countryside, hiking with my grandad, and learning to appreciate the quiet power of nature. As I traveled, I realized that no matter where I was in the world, the mountains, forests, and trails always felt like home. Running, climbing, and pushing myself physically became not just a passion, but a way of life.

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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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Hi, I’m Claire. I’ve spent my career designing and leading outdoor adventures, from hut-to-hut treks in Iceland to biking tours through the rolling landscapes of Tuscany. With experience working for Backroads, evoTrip, and Macs Adventure, I’ve developed and led active travel experiences across Europe, South America, and beyond. Whether you’re looking for the best hikes in the Dolomites, planning a trek to Everest Base Camp, or curious about island-hopping in the Galapagos, I’m here to help.

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