Austin-Lehman Guide: Jenny Young

Guide: Jenny Young
Short Bio:
I was born and raised right outside Cleveland, Ohio on wonderful Lake Erie. I graduated from Ohio University with a degree in Outdoor Recreation and Education / Environmental Studies. I have always loved being outdoors and during college is when I was able to develop the skills to become a leader in the outdoors. I spent most of my weekends hiking, backpacking, biking and kayaking in the Appalachian Mountains. Through my course work and working for the Universities outdoor pursuits program I realized I wanted to make a career out of my passion for the outdoors.

The past few summers I have been working as a whitewater rafting guide. I first worked on the Chattooga River in the Appalachians. Most recently I have been guiding on the Kern River in the Southern Sierras. When I am not working, I am traveling. My travels have led me to big cities, small towns, music festivals and deep into the backcountry all over the United States. Most recently my travels have led me to Big Sky Country. Montana is exceptionally beautiful and has endless outdoor activities to offer. I am happy my trails and travels have led me to a summer season is such a wonderful place.

1. Yellowstone
2. Montana Family Vacations

Jenny's Guide Survey:

What’s your favorite vacation destination?
I love mountains and rivers. Some of my most memorable trips were in Montana and Alaska.

What destination would you like to visit?
I have an endless list of places all over the world I would like to visit. New Zealand and rafting the Grand Canyon are on the top of the list.

What’s your favorite hike?
I love hiking around the Giant Sequoia Trees in California. But, all hikes are good hikes with good company, good views and maybe a good swimming hole to top it off.

Describe the most amazing experience you’ve had while guiding a trip:
While I was traveling in Alaska, my friends and I planned a backpacking trip in the Wrangell – St. Elias National Park. We took a bush plane into the park. It was an amazing feeling to be dropped off in such a remote location, surrounded by glaciers, mountains and all sorts of wildlife.

Favorite Book: The Giving Tree and all sorts of non-fiction.

Favorite Outdoor Activity?
I can’t just choose one. I would say whitewater rafting and backpacking tie for first place.

 What are your hobbies?
When I am not playing in the outdoors you can usually find me reading, cooking or doing arts and crafts. I recently learned to crochet so I can make hats to keep me warm in the winter

When did you first catch the travel bug?
I started moving around when I graduated from high school and I have not stopped since.