Expertise & Background
- Topics of Expertise: Rock climbing, mountaineering, thru-hiking, backpacking and hiking, trail running, travel
- Education: Bachelor of Arts in Intercultural Studies and Community Development, Covenant College
- Years of Writing: 6+
- Years of Gear Testing: 9
- Certifications: Wilderness First Aid, CPR, PADI Open Water Diver
- Club or Association Memberships: SCC
- Previous Publications: Wayfinder Magazine, GearJunkie
Why I Chose This Career
We all want our stories to be heard, and we rack up some darn good ones when romping around the world. So, I suppose that’s how I started. Whether it’s writing, painting, or filming, getting to tell my tales with either a lens or pen—nestled within the outdoor community—has been an incredible ride.
How I Began My Career
Weaving an increasingly complicated web of freelance video gigs, copyediting, and journalism in the outdoor industry, the past several years found me doing whatever I could to wrangle enough funds for my adventures. It was fun but not the most consistent existence. Eventually, the creative energy I got from writing about my exploits and the gear that got me through them won out. I’ve been clacking away at the keyboard ever since… and living a slightly more settled life.
Recent Articles
Best Hiking Pants of 2025
Last Updated: April 28, 2025
A great pair of hiking pants offer comfort, freedom of movement, the versatility to perform well in a range of environments, and durability over the long haul. In terms of materials, many of today’s top pants are made from lightweight and stretchy...
Best Trail Running Shoes of 2025
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Running on varied, challenging trails is a welcome break from the monotony of pounding pavement or the dreaded treadmill. Better yet, trail running requires minimal gear...
Bushwhacking with Elephants: Crossing Kenya's Aberdare Range
Last Updated: May 23, 2025
"Howl a few times like a hyena when we have some distance between us and an elephant, and we'll try to reconvene in that valley below," Martin wheezed out as we thrashed our way up the bamboo-strewn...
Best Backpacking Sleeping Pads of 2025
Last Updated: April 21, 2025
A good night’s sleep on a backpacking trip used to be a rarity, but today’s sleeping pads are much improved over their predecessors. Comfort is better than ever with advanced baffling and cell designs, weight and packed size continue to drop, and you...