Hi, I'm Maria! I got my start in the outdoors the same way a lot of people do—family trips to national parks. But it wasn’t until I hiked to Vernal Falls in Yosemite that I realized how much I loved it. That first hike led to thousands more, and eventually, a career as a Park Ranger and outdoor educator at some of the country’s most iconic national parks, including Glacier, Grand Canyon, and Rocky Mountain. If you’re planning a national park trip and need help navigating seasonal conditions, permits, trail choices, or even picking which park to visit, I’ve got you covered.
Where I Can Help
If you’re heading to any of the following destinations, I can help you:
📍 U.S. National Parks & Public Lands – I’ve worked in Glacier, Grand Canyon, and Rocky Mountain National Park and have extensive experience exploring Zion, Bryce Canyon, Capitol Reef, Grand Teton, Yellowstone, and more. I can help you understand permits, closures, seasonal conditions, and hidden gems.
📍 Patagonia – Torres del Paine (O Trek) – I’ve completed the O Trek in Torres del Paine, an incredible multi-day adventure through glaciers, mountains, and some of the most stunning landscapes on Earth. If you’re considering this trek, I can help with permits, logistics, and on-the-ground expectations.
📍 New Zealand’s National Parks – From Fiordland and Mount Aspiring to Abel Tasman and Queenstown, I’ve road-tripped, hiked, and lived out of a campervan here. Whether you’re planning a Great Walk or a scenic drive, I can help you navigate the best spots.
📍 Southeast Asia – I’ve traveled extensively through Thailand and Vietnam, including the Ha Giang Loop, Ninh Binh, and island hopping in Koh Phangan and Koh Tao. If you’re heading to this region for an active adventure, I can help.
📍 Costa Rica – I’ve explored the beaches, volcanoes, and rainforests of La Fortuna, Nicoya Peninsula, and Manuel Antonio, and can help you find the best hikes, waterfalls, and wildlife encounters.
My Favorite Adventures
🏕️ Hiking the O Trek in Patagonia – Eight days of glaciers, condors, and remote wilderness in Torres del Paine, drinking pisco sours in backcountry huts and swapping stories with travelers from all over the world.
🎒 Exploring New Zealand by Campervan – Road-tripping across the country, waking up to sunrises over Fiordland, hiking in Mount Aspiring National Park, and exploring the wild coasts of Abel Tasman.
🛶 Backcountry Trips in U.S. National Parks – Some of my favorite experiences have been backpacking and rafting in Glacier, Rocky Mountain, and the Grand Canyon, finding the best remote spots far from the crowds.
Specializations & Interests
🌎 Helping You Pick the Right National Park – If you’re torn between destinations, I can help match you to the best park for your adventure style.
🏕️ Backcountry Permits & Seasonal Planning – Knowing when to go and what to expect is key—I can help you navigate permits, closures, and ideal trail conditions.
🚶♀️ Solo & First-Time Adventurers – Whether you’re planning your first big hike or traveling solo, I can help with safety, logistics, and confidence-building.
👨👩👧👦 Families & Multi-Generational Travel – I’ve worked with families and older travelers in national parks and can help tailor recommendations to all skill levels.
Note: your map and TripGuide are shareable so you can give to your travel companions
