Kassi

Trip leader

Originally from Tucson, AZ, Kassi has lived all over the U.S. Most recently, Kassi worked as a wildland firefighter out west; previously, she worked for AmeriCorps in Wisconsin, working on the 675-mile Ice Age National Scenic Trail. She’s also tutored students in math, writing, and behavior management in Hawaii. Before that, she was a division leader at Chestnut Lake Camp in Pennsylvania, and the co-director for Camp Adventure in Tucson. She also earned a yoga certification in Thailand!

Education

Washington State University, bachelor’s degree in psychology and neuroscience

Certifications

Emergency medical technician, wildland firefighting, emergency ropes rescue

Favorite hobbies

I love to travel and explore new places. I spent 30 days at a Muay Thai camp in Thailand this spring, and I plan to become a structure firefighter within two years and move to Washington state to start a Montessori-style outdoor/nature preschool and animal rescue sanctuary!

Favorite outdoor achievement

It’ll probably be the Pacific Crest Trail, which I’ll be hiking this summer before and after leading trips at Adventure Treks! The biggest achievement so far is convincing my little brother who is a total gamer and homebody to join me for six weeks at the beginning of the trail. I am beyond excited to be doing it with him!

Favorite outdoor memory

On one of my Yellowstone trips with AT, the boys started out discussing all the reasons they wanted to go home and how much they missed their phones and TV. At one point, there was this sunset at our campground, in front of the Grand Teton, and all 10 of these boys were sitting in front of it, absolutely mesmerized… It was incredible and inspiring. They were awe-struck. It was awesome to be a part of this memory with them.

Favorite place in the world

Wherever I’m free, alive, and experiencing something new! And, of course, surrounded by a loving community. If there is anything I’ve learned in my many seasons, it’s that the community matters more than the place.

What are you most looking forward to this summer?

I’m looking forward to meeting the kids and my staff team! AT always brings me such special memories, and I am so eager to see what beautiful experiences happen this year! I love Adventure Treks!

Previous Adventure Treks trips include Alaska Expedition, Yellowstone Teton Adventure, and fall/spring school programs