Maddie Downie
Writing for Switchback Travel is the perfect blend of my two favorite things: playing outside and playing with words.
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.
Last Updated: September 12, 2025
There are so many reasons to love a fleece. They’re cozy, comfortable, warm, and they have a lot of performance appeal too: They breathe better than synthetic insulated jackets, and naturally repel moisture. When it comes to picking a fleece that can...
Last Updated: May 19, 2025
Gone are the days when climbing consisted of swami belts, hobnailed boots, and weeks spent nailing pitons into swaths of granite. Current trends in climbing gear have moved toward functionality, performance, and thoughtful design, and packs have...
Last Updated: March 11, 2025
It's time to ditch your belts and powder skirts: Bibs offer confidence-inspiring protection against wayward snow, cold drafts, and sagging waistlines. They also provide a considerable bump in storage compared to standard ski pants, allowing you to...
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...
Switchback Travel is a part of AllGear Digital's portfolio of media brands.