Born and raised on the South Carolina coast, I discovered my love for the mountains while traveling as a dialysis technician and eventually made the Rocky Mountains of Montana my home. I’m currently a dialysis tech, preparing to graduate from nursing school in May. Backpacking is my ultimate passion, and I’ve explored trails worldwide, including the Long Trail, Wonderland Trail, John Muir Trail, Salkantay Trek, the W Circuit in Patagonia, and Isle Royale. In recent years, I’ve embraced trail running, even conquering challenges like the Rut Mountain Run in Big Sky. When I’m not on the trails, you’ll find me skiing, camping, paddleboarding, or enjoying any outdoor adventure. And after a long day outdoors, nothing beats mac & cheese, craft beer, and French fries as the perfect reward.

Ryan is a professional photographer, cinematographer, and passionate long-distance backpacker whose work has graced renowned magazines and streaming platforms like Amazon Prime Video. Driven by a love for adventure and storytelling, he excels in capturing extraordinary moments in the most unique settings. Before pursuing his creative career, Ryan was a performance cellist, showcasing his talent in Chicago and London, including leading the London New Year’s Day Parade during his final performance. When he’s not behind the lens, he’s often found backpacking, mountaineering, or bouldering, immersing himself in the great outdoors where his stories come to life.

I didn’t grow up spending much time outdoors, but as an adult, hiking has transformed my life in ways I never imagined. It has taken me to breathtaking destinations and opened the door to new experiences like camping, backpacking, kayaking, and more. The adventures I’ve had in nature have improved my physical health and wellness and taught me invaluable life lessons. I understand how intimidating it can be to try something new, especially in the outdoors, which is why I’m passionate about sharing my adventures to inspire others. I believe everyone can embrace the benefits of nature, no matter their circumstances, and I love encouraging others to explore. My favorite activities include hiking, camping, backpacking, and running!