Wandering Switchback
Hi folks, I'm Switchback (she/her/hers). My goal is to help you get outdoors safely and responsibly.
I have enjoyed the outdoors my whole life. I share my experiences with hiking, backpacking, camping, photography and more here with the hope of encouraging you along the way. I share some of my disability journey, including anxiety and knee issues associated with my time in the US Navy, along with my experiences as a queer woman of size out in nature.
I am an emergency department registered nurse, a disabled veteran, a mom and I'm married to a wonderful woman you'll know as Mountain Goat. We are based out of Northern California, so we are fortunate to have access to incredible places.
Wandering Switchback
Today, I saw this sticker on the window of a local business, and it reminded me of the peace of mind I feel when I see this on a business. As a gay (white, cis) woman, the world is not always a safe place. I recognize my many privileges and that it's important to use my platforms to create a safe space for marginalized populations, including ones of which I am not a member. I'm updating my banners to include both the Pride flag with the intersex circle and the Black Lives Matter logo. This may lead to strong feelings one way or another among some folks, and that's okay. My goal is to create and promote inclusivity and a safe space, as well as a platform to discuss opinions.
If you are a business owner or have any kind of public platform, I'd encourage you to make an overt statement if you want to show marginalized groups that not only their money, but their presence is welcome (or if you don't feel this way, you can make an overt statement saying as much). While it may feel like this is already implied, explicit invitation matters more than many of us realize.
I try not to live my life in fear, but I admit there is fear for what the next 4 years will bring. I hope to channel this to bring people together rather than further divide.
6 months ago | [YT] | 49
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Wandering Switchback
It may be a few weeks before I have a new video up, but I’m coming right back. Some big life changes happening right now (good ones) that require me to step away from everything else at the moment. I’ll be sharing more soon! ❤️
7 months ago | [YT] | 20
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Wandering Switchback
Who is seeing aurora borealis tonight?? Where are you seeing it? Share below!👇
11 months ago | [YT] | 6
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Wandering Switchback
First time lacing up my trail shoes since surgery today. I did 1.5 miles of flat trails today with my poles and my camera around my neck. It felt really good to get my feet on the dirt again, and feel the wind against me. 👏🎉❤️🌲☘️
1 year ago | [YT] | 48
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Wandering Switchback
I am entirely too excited about my newest piece of gear! I wish I hadn’t donated my old external-frame Jansport (several years ago), but as soon as this knee will allow, I’m taking this bad boy for a spin! After a deep clean, of course.
#oldschool
1 year ago | [YT] | 23
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Wandering Switchback
Oh. My. Goodness.
This will be going live tomorrow, 2/23/24, during the first segment of Good Morning America!! Let me know if you get to catch it live! I'll be sharing the link to the segment once it's available.
1 year ago | [YT] | 30
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Wandering Switchback
On an editing frenzy!
After filming a bunch during our recent desert trip, I have a bunch of great desert content coming up! #LeaveNoTrace Enjoy these silly pics from Saguaro National Park! 🌵 🏜️🫶
1 year ago | [YT] | 28
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Wandering Switchback
Having some of the feels.
Leveling up on my disability journey- I just purchased my first cane. I experience flare ups of my arthritis every so often, and this one has been horrendous (super fun while working five 12-hour days in a row in an emergency department). Arthritis has been a part of my life for going on 20 years (thanks, Navy!), but man, getting older (I say this as I’m about to turn 44) can be rough sometimes.
I’m grateful for tools that can help me through the rough times, and even more grateful for the good days that get me out on the trail.
#disabledpeoplehiketoo
1 year ago | [YT] | 19
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Wandering Switchback
I asked, and you overwhelmingly said YES! So here it is! Don't miss the last one- it's crazy what companies will say.
1 year ago | [YT] | 4
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Wandering Switchback
It is done- I got the video about gear I’ve turned down completed! It’s uploading now, and I hope to release it Thursday. This is SUCH a fun video, and I can’t wait for you to see it!! This screenshot is a good representation of what’s to come! 😂😂
1 year ago | [YT] | 37
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