Mary Andino author bio head shot GearJunkie
341 articles

Mary Andino

Location: Missouri
Social media: https://www.instagram.com/andino_mc/https://www.linkedin.com/in/maryandino

Expertise

Topics of Expertise: Climbing, Backpacking, Camping, Hiking, National Parks, Land Access
Years in This Expertise: 6+
Number/Types of Products Expert Has Tested: Packs ranging from 20L to 75L, ultralight sleeping pads, over 30 different climbing harnesses, and the newest climbing shoes to hit the market.

Education & Certifications

Education: BA in History, College of William & Mary. MA and PhD in History, Washington University in St. Louis
Years of Writing: 5+
Previous Publications: Climbing, Backpacker, and Terrain.

A Word from Mary Andino

As a California native who grew up in a family of Boy Scouts, the outdoors have always been central to my life. Nothing makes me feel more powerful and confident than going on solo backpacking adventures. Since falling in love with climbing in my mid-20s, I’ve become a weekend warrior who is always at the crag, working on a sport climbing project. My two senior dogs, Olive and Bailey, are my constant outdoor travel companions.


group of people surround a dead whale on a beach

people walk by set-up tent in rocky area

black and white photo with theodore roosevelt

helicopter stationary on mountain

grand canyon with hazy smoke from wildfire

overview of ocean and coastline

group of backpacking meals

mounds in green plain

chair set up at a camp

group of hikers stand together on mountain

small a-frame hut in green mountain landscape

female backpacker stands and smiles

YETI Flask Toss

Dometic Brand Image Car Camping

black and white photo of rock formations

tick on a green leaf

Save on outdoor gear at Backcountry.com with a Summit Club+ membership

rocket launching by spacex facility

Yosemite park sign

BLM sign in desert for Big Pines

collage of instagram photos

hiking with the Outdoor Vitals Carbon Evo 50 Backpack

view of beach and sea with palm trees

climber on wall from above

black and white photo of camps

dog with tongue

mt denali in the snow

people wait in line in parking lot

building with forest service sign

dad sits in hammock with two daughters