Hi! My name is Katie Griffith. 

For the last thirteen years, my life’s work has revolved around connecting people to the outdoors. 

Originally from St. Paul, Minnesota, I got my start in outdoor education in 2011, leading backpack and canoe expeditions in Northern Minnesota, Montana, and Wyoming. Since then I’ve taught fire ecology and water management in the Colorado Rockies, connected rural youth with public lands in the North Cascades, coached competitive youth climbing in Seattle, and developed my skills as a climber and guide all over the Western US. 

Now I split time between Joshua Tree, CA and the Pacific Northwest, where I work as a guide and freelance writer. I believe that climbing can bring out the best in us when it calls us to step into our challenge zones, support and advocate for others, and imagine new frameworks for what is possible. Both my guiding and writing work attempts to dig into these lessons and share them with others.   

Guiding  

I guide single and multi-pitch rock climbing, alpine routes and glaciated peaks. I also teach a range of skills, including leading trad, self-rescue, multi-pitch skills, anchor building, snow and glacier travel, crevasse rescue, and more. Throughout the process, I’ve sought training through the American Mountain Guides Association for the terrain in which I work. I’m currently operating as an Assistant Rock and Apprentice Alpine Guide. 

During the fall, winter, and spring, I guide and lead climbing retreats in Joshua Tree, California. I also travel to Red Rock Canyon to guide multi-pitch routes. When the desert heats up in April, I migrate north to the Pacific Northwest. There I’m grateful to be able to guide alpine routes and rock climbs in two of my favorite places - the North Cascades and the Index Town Walls. 

Writing 

The landscapes I’ve traveled through and the people I’ve met have shaped my perspective for the writing work I do today. Along the way I’ve seen familiar places change as the climate crisis creeps into our present reality. I’ve also witnessed the transformative effect of the outdoors, as people learn to step into their power.

I research and write feature stories about access to outdoor recreation, women in the outdoor industry, vulnerability and personal growth through climbing, and the impacts of climate change on the outdoor industry. I also produce educational blog content, gear reviews, and newsletters to help readers access the outdoors in a safe and fulfilling way. 

Current and past writing clients include REI, Therm-a-Rest, Climbing Magazine, Trails Magazine, Mount Baker Experience Magazine, Gear Junkie, YMCA BOLD & GOLD, Adventure Journal, and The Climbing Zine.