Mel Fernandes

Climbing

Skiing & Snowboarding

Hiking

Hey, I’m Mel! I grew up hiking and climbing in the Washington Cascades and have spent years guiding, planning trips, and working in search & rescue. I’m passionate about making the outdoors more inclusive and accessible—especially for LGBTQ+ adventurers and those new to outdoor spaces. Whether you’re planning a ski trip, a climbing objective, or a scenic hiking adventure in Washington’s Cascades, I’ll help you plan with accuracy and detail.

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Outdoor Educator

Country Expertise

United States : Washington
Climbing Hiking Skiing & Snowboarding
Washington : The Cascades

Where I Can Help

📍 Washington State & The Cascades – From day hikes in the North Cascades to multi-day mountaineering objectives, I can help you navigate Washington’s best climbing, hiking, and skiing destinations.

📍 Ski Trips & Backcountry Planning – I can help you plan ski trips to Crystal Mountain and other top Washington ski areas, including conditions, logistics, and best runs.

📍 Queer & Inclusive Outdoor Travel – I advocate for safer, more welcoming spaces for LGBTQ+ travelers and can offer insight on how to navigate outdoor recreation with confidence.

📍 Outdoor Organizations & Advocacy in Seattle – If you’re looking to connect with outdoor orgs, climbing gyms, or advocacy networks, I can point you in the right direction.

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My Favorite Adventures

🏔️ Climbing Big Cascade Routes – Taking on technical climbing objectives in Washington’s mountains.

🎿 Skiing Crystal Mountain – The best powder days are the ones you plan right.

🥾 Scenic Hikes in the Cascades – From high-alpine ridges to quiet forest trails, the Cascades have it all.

🏕️ Adventures with Community – The best trips are the ones where we push ourselves and try something new together.

What you get:

  • 25-min Zoom call with your expert
  • Personalized TripGuide with your recommendations, logistics info, and a day by day approach following the call
  • Custom Google map, curated by your expert

Note: your map and TripGuide are shareable so you can give to your travel companions

Send me a message

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Common Questions

How does Outdoorable work?
Outdoorable connects you with experienced outdoor pros through 1:1 video calls. Whether you’re deciding between destinations, need insider tips for a specific trail, or want advice tailored to your skill level, our experts are here to help. Simply browse expert profiles, book a call, and get the guidance you need to plan your next adventure with confidence.
What can I ask an Outdoorable expert?
Anything about your outdoor trip! Need advice on hiking routes, family-friendly trails, or navigating backcountry terrain? Want to know the best time to visit Patagonia or if a specific climb is doable for your skill level? Our experts are here to give personalized insights based on their firsthand experience.
How long are the calls?
Calls are 30 minutes, giving you plenty of time to ask questions, explore options, and get personalized advice. If you need more time, you can always book a follow-up session.
Can I choose which expert to talk to?
Yes! You can browse detailed expert profiles to find someone who matches your destination or activity needs. Whether it’s a hut-to-hut trek in the Alps or beginner-friendly kayaking in Croatia, you’ll find an expert who’s been there and done that.
What happens after I book a call?
Once you book a call, you’ll get a confirmation email with a link to share your questions or trip details in advance. This helps the expert prepare and ensures you get the most out of your session. You’ll also receive a link for the video call closer to the appointment.
How much does it cost?
A 30-minute call costs $60, with $45 going directly to the expert. We believe in fair pay for our pros who have invaluable expertise while keeping it affordable for adventurers.
What if I need to reschedule or cancel?
We get it—plans change. You can reschedule or cancel your call up to 24 hours before the scheduled time. Just head to your confirmation email for details on how to make changes.
What if I don’t find the call helpful?
We strive to connect you with the best experts and provide actionable advice. If you feel your call didn’t meet your expectations, let us know. We’ll work with you to make it right. All Pros can see your questions in advance, and they will let us know beforehand if they don’t think they are the best person to provide insight.
Can I share the call with someone else?
Yes! Whether you’re planning a trip with friends or family, feel free to include them in the call. Just make sure everyone’s ready to hop on when the session starts.
Do experts plan my trip for me or give me an itinerary?
No, Outdoorable is not a trip-planning service. Our experts provide personalized advice, answer questions, and guide you with insights to help you plan your trip. Think of it as having a knowledgeable friend with all the lowdown so you can plan your perfect trip.
How do you choose your experts?
Our experts are handpicked for their firsthand experience, regional knowledge, and ability to give actionable advice. Many are professional guides, trip designers, or seasoned adventurers with years of expertise. That means their jobs are to find the best places off the beaten path. Needless to say… you’re in good hands.
What kind of trips can Outdoorable help with?
Outdoorable is perfect for all types of nature-based adventures:
• Planning a big bucket-list adventure
• Deciding between destinations based on your outdoor skill level and interests
• Finding hidden trails, parks, routes
• Preparing for a solo trip, family outing, or group adventure
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