Hi, I’m Sophia. I grew up in Western North Carolina, where hiking and running through the Blue Ridge Mountains became my happy place. After spending seven years guiding with Backroads Travel, I’ve had the chance to explore and lead active trips across the Alps, Scotland, and Hawaii. Whether you’re hiking the Tour du Mont Blanc, trekking the West Highland Way, or exploring the Southern Appalachians, I love sharing insights to make your adventure unforgettable.
Where I Can Help:
📍 The Alps – From the Tour du Mont Blanc to the Haute Route, I’ve guided and trekked some of the most legendary alpine trails in France and Switzerland.
📍 Scotland’s West Highland Way – A rugged, beautiful long-distance trek that’s perfect for both first-time adventurers and experienced hikers looking for dramatic scenery.
📍 Western North Carolina & Southern Appalachia – I grew up hiking these trails and know the best routes in the Blue Ridge Mountains and Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
📍 Big Island, Hawaii – Whether it’s volcanic landscapes or lush jungle trails, I can help you find the best hikes and viewpoints on the island.
📍 Montafon Alps, Austria – One of my favorite regions for hut-to-hut hiking, where alpine meadows and dramatic peaks make every day on the trail feel epic.
My Favorite Adventures:
🏔️ The Haute Route – 13 days of pure alpine magic, crossing from Chamonix to Zermatt through some of the most spectacular landscapes in Europe.
🥾 The Montafon Circuit – A 10-day trek through the Austrian Alps that’s a hidden gem for hikers looking for quiet trails and breathtaking scenery.
Expertise & Interests:
🌍 Hut-to-Hut Hiking in Europe – I love helping people navigate Europe’s mountain hut system and plan multi-day treks.
🏕️ First-Time Long-Distance Trekkers – If you’re new to long-distance hiking, I can help you with route planning, packing, and trail logistics.
🗺️ Alpine & Appalachian Hiking – Whether you’re planning an epic trek in the Alps or looking for the best hikes in the Southern Appalachians, I’ve got you covered.
🏃 Trail Running – I find the most joy running on trails, and I can help you pick the best routes for both scenic runs and endurance challenges.
