Expertise & Background
- Topics of Expertise: Climbing, mountaineering, trail running, hiking and backpacking, backcountry skiing
- Education: Masters in Education
- Years of Writing: 9
- Years of Gear Testing: 9
- Certifications: PCGI certified Lead Guide
- Club or Association Memberships: American Alpine Club, Access Fund, Austrian Alpine Club
- Previous Publications: Climbing Magazine, Alpinist, Sidetracked, Adventure Journal, REI Co-op Journal
Why I Chose This Career
It feels like the other way around—this career chose me. I've always loved writing and have a fairly analytical brain, but my biggest fascination in life was with the mountains and the experiences I could have within them. Luckily, I get to combine the two!
How I Began My Career
Way back in the day, I was full-time rock climbing and living in my van and needed some extra cash to support my dirtbaggery. It made sense to write about the gear I was using and the life I was living! Fast forward almost a decade and I'm still doing just that, although my "house" got a little bigger and is no longer on wheels.
Recent Articles
Best Women’s Backpacking Backpacks of 2025
Last Updated: April 30, 2025
Choosing a suitable backpacking pack can be a daunting task, with myriad models touting different capacities, organization, suspension designs, and more. Our breakdown—written by women, for women—will help you identify your personal style of...
Scarpa Crux Review
Last Updated: October 23, 2019
Visit any crag across the country, and you’re bound to see Scarpa’s Crux on the feet of multiple climbers. This entry-level approach shoe is a well-built, affordable offering that excels on trail and easy rock. And in early 2018, it got a few...
Best Windbreaker Jackets of 2025
Last Updated: July 8, 2025
Let’s get right to the point: We love windbreaker jackets. In our opinion, a good windbreaker is the most versatile outdoor jacket money can buy. These small but mighty outer layers pack a punch, offering serious protection from the elements for hikers...
Gregory Facet 55 Backpack Review
Last Updated: May 9, 2022
One of the biggest names in packs, Gregory is well known for their comfortable and feature-rich designs, built to carry everything but the kitchen sink. But less is often more, especially for moving quickly...