meet your guides
our story: why we started
We built Tracks of Her Own because we saw a glaring gap in the mountain guiding world.
For a long time, entering the backcountry meant navigating not just the mountains, but environments designed primarily by and for men. From testosterone-fueled decision-making to “ego-first" mountain culture, many women felt left out, intimidated, or pushed to their limits without the space to ask questions, learn deeply, or build true self-reliance.
We decided it was time for a change.
As part of the 14% of female mountain guides in California, we created Tracks of Her Own to reimagine what backcountry education and guiding look like. We believe that top-tier, highly technical mountain instruction should come with a side of empathy. And no one can empathize with women wanting to earn their turns better than female mountain professionals who’ve been in that space themselves.
We’re here to give you the skills, safety systems, and confidence to take total ownership of your backcountry experiences, while being surrounded by a community of rad, supportive women who have your back.
meet sammy | Founder & Lead Guide
Hi, I’m Sammy! The Sierra Nevada has been my classroom, playground, and home for over a decade. One of my great passions is taking the intimidation out of backcountry travel, and helping women step beyond resort boundaries with confidence, skill, and joy.
My Guiding Philosophy:
I lead with empathy, clear communication, and low-ego decision-making. High-consequence mountain environments require open dialogue, mutual respect, and a supportive learning environment. Whether we’re dissecting a snow pit, practicing kick turns on a steep skin track, or brewing morning coffee at a base camp hut, my goal is to ensure you feel empowered, safe, and seen every step of the way.
A FEW OF MY FAVORITE THINGS IN THE BACKCOUNTRY:
Favorite Sierra Zone: Reserved for show and tell only. Let me show you sometime!
Go-To Skin Track Snack: Nerds Clusters and Turkey Wraps
Best Part of Guiding: Hearing the WOOOOS!! and laughter amongst the group after an awesome ski descent!
CREDENTIALS & CERTIFICATIONS
AMGA Assistant Splitboard Guide / Single Pitch Instructor / Apprentice Alpine Guide
American Avalanche Association PRO 1/PRO 2 Certs
Certified Avalanche Instructor (AIARE)
Wilderness First Responder (WFR) / CPR
7 years guiding and teaching avalanche education across the Eastern Sierra, Tahoe, and Mt. Shasta, in addition to guiding experience in the Cascades, Canada, Alaska, Japan, and New Zealand.
3 seasons of public avalanche forecasting in the Sierra
3 years ski patrolling
what makes guiding with us different?
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We understand the unique physical, emotional, and social dynamics women face in the outdoor industry. We have designed our courses and trips around this, and we teach and guide to these strengths and weaknesses.
All of our courses are taught by female AMGA Trained/Certified Guides, Certified Avalanche Educators and Certified Wilderness First Responders.
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We deliver industry-standard, rigorous technical instruction. From snowpack analysis to rope work, we deliver teachings and skills in an open, supportive environment where no question is a "dumb" question.
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You’re not just joining a weekend trip; you’re stepping into an empowering network of touring partners, mentors, and friends who share your passion for the mountains.
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From endless supplies of Nerds Clusters and biodegradable glitter to incredible backcountry meals, we ensure every detail of your trip feels as joyful as it is educational.
Whether you're taking your very first step beyond the resort gates or preparing to tackle high-alpine mountaineering objectives, we’re here to guide you home to your mountain self.