Katie has spent the last thirteen years connecting people to the outdoors as an educator, guide, and writer. She got her start leading canoe and backpacking trips for youth in Northern Minnesota and the Rocky Mountains. Spending weeks paddling along remote waterways and hiking high in the alpine, she has witnessed the transformative power that backcountry trips can have on people of all ages. She’s motivated by increasing access to and participation in outdoor activities.

After working as an outdoor educator for many years, Katie dove into a career as a climbing guide. She has pursued training from the American Mountain Guides Association and currently works year-round in the field, guiding rock and alpine climbs. As she puts her clothing and equipment through the wringer on remote objectives in the mountains, she has seen firsthand how gear can impact our safety and overall experience outdoors.

As an educator first, her goal with every gear review is to help outdoor enthusiasts prioritize purchases that will make the biggest difference on their adventures. While some items are essential for risk management or long-term health, other pieces of gear can be easily sourced from a thrift store or can already be found in your closet. As a gear reviewer, Katie seeks to demystify technical jargon and reduce barriers to getting outside.