Expertise & Background
- Topics of Expertise: Climbing, backpacking, hiking, camping, backcountry skiing, mountaineering
- Education: MFA in Creative Writing, Western Washington University
- Years of Writing: 8
- Years of Gear Testing: 4+
- Certifications: CPR, AIARE Level 1
- Previous Publications: GearJunkie, Mount Baker Experience Magazine, various creative writing magazines
Why I Chose This Career
Writing for Switchback Travel is the perfect blend of my two favorite things: playing outside and playing with words.
How I Began My Career
My writing experience is rooted in poetry and fiction, and I graduated in 2022 with a Master's Degree in Creative Writing from Western Washington University. Though I was raised camping, 14er-bagging, and horseback riding in Colorado, I quickly fell in love with the rugged North Cascades and dove head-first into rock climbing, backcountry skiing, and the art of PNW bushwhacking—anything that gets me to the top of those peaks.
Recent Articles
REI Co-op Trailmade 60 Backpack Review
Last Updated: March 25, 2025
REI Co-op’s Trailmade 60 pack initially caught our team's interest with its $179 price tag and has since won us over with its performance on a range of multi-day treks across the western United States...
Best Waterproof Hiking Boots of 2025
Last Updated: December 11, 2025
Waterproof hiking boots are a go-to choice for muddy day hikes and multi-day backpacking trips. While breathability and weight are key factors in any hiking footwear, staying dry is a top priority...
Best Ski Helmets of 2025
Last Updated: November 26, 2025
No matter your ability level, picking up a helmet for skiing is a no-brainer. If you’ve been putting off replacing a helmet that’s years old or are new to the sport...
Best Winter Mittens of 2025
Last Updated: December 9, 2025
Nothing spells cozy quite like a winter mitten, which by definition prioritizes warmth over dexterity. It’s true that you’ll most often catch us wearing gloves, but we do prefer mittens for particularly frigid environments and wind-generating...