Hometown
Albion, Maine
What type of paddling do you like to do?
Multi-Day/Expedition, Rafting, Whitewater Kayaking
Where is your favorite place to paddle?
Currently, any stretch of the Colorado or the Yampa because they're close to home and so beautiful. But my heart will always be fondest of Maine's Big 3!
Tell us about your favorite paddling experience or biggest paddling achievement.
I was lucky enough to win a Grand Canyon permit within my first few years of applying. When I won the lottery, I had plenty of rafting experience but hardly any overnight trip experience. Through all of my stress and nerves, I was able to captain my own boat and TL a safe, fun, wild, and memorable 25-day trip with 15 of my best friends! This trip will forever influence my boating experiences moving forward.
Along with this, I realized the night before we headed to Lees that I forgot to pack my PFD. You know, the ONE thing you need to go boating. I was distraught to say the least. We got to Lees and I had resolved to wear a custy lifejacket for the next 25 days amidst my crew's laughter and teasing. Someone one of my trip members knew happened to be at Lees that day as well, and without even meeting him, he gave me his Greenjacket. I will always be in awe of the camaraderie of the whitewater community and the things that complete strangers will do for fellow boaters. This is why we do what we do!
You're leaving for the Grand Canyon tomorrow. What is the one luxury item you packed for the trip?
Bag Balm! Though I might argue that it's a necessity, not luxury...
What do you do when you are not on the river?
Hang with my dog, ski, bike, yoga, play card games, garden, drink beer and get crafty!
Final thoughts from Julia
I started guiding rafts when I was in college. I quickly realized, even though I didn't quite want to admit it to myself, that I would abandon my degree in pursuit of the river lifestyle. I worked in hydrology for a few years after college, eventually quit to do the ski bum thing, then inevitably felt the pull back to the river. The folks at CKS and I sort of found each other in a river gods stroke of fate, and I quickly grew and progressed within the company to where I am at today.
I love that I get to be a strong voice at CKS, in my local boating community, and in the whitewater community as a whole. Everybody at CKS has a clear passion for the river and for fun and healthy lifestyles. When you're intentional with who and what you devote your time and energy to, great things happen!
