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
Best Backpacking Stoves of 2025
Last Updated: April 18, 2025
Backpackers need a stove that's lightweight, dependable, and will get the job done quickly after a long day on the trail. Thankfully, the market is full of both time-tested models and newer, more innovative designs. From all-in-one stoves made...
Best Midlayers of 2025
Last Updated: October 23, 2025
In the typical three-layer clothing system, the midlayer is given the all-important insulating duties. If you're looking for a midlayer that can work for almost any situation...
Best Backcountry (Touring) Ski Boots of 2025/26
Last Updated: November 21, 2025
There's a strong argument that the most important part of your ski touring kit is a pair of quality boots that fit well. The good news is that this growing category has seen some impressive advancements, with a plethora of models that excel both on the...
Best GPS Watches of 2025
Last Updated: August 27, 2025
For hikers and mountaineers alike, a quality GPS watch is a worthy addition to your gear collection. Built to handle the extremes, GPS watches have a distinct look with durable, scratch-resistant faces and large screens flanked by glove-friendly...