Mary Andino author bio head shot GearJunkie
251 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.


two women stand outdoors with sunglasses

view of mountains stream and forest

cut down trees in forest

front facing mug shot of a man

mountain landscape at sunset

mount rushmore

wide open blue sky and grass land

oil service station with mountains and sea in background

xtx texas thru hike

river cuts through canyon

hikers on trail with wildflowers

Coyote

two people snow shoeing

sleeping bag set up in trail bathroom

backpacking gear laid out on wood floor

skiers ride down a mountain

woman stands outside hotel building wear coat and sling bag

two people on mountain running up trail

florida panther in tree

two climbers climb the same boulder side by side

Can’t-Miss Deals From Backcountry, Cotopaxi, Janji, and More

two ice axes being recalled

Black bear walks on trail

mountain landscape

snow capped mountains with forest and road with truck below

Yosemite National Park

mountain range at colorful sunset

blue waves crash onto rocky formation on shore

Mountain Lion

overhead view of cross country skier