Mary Andino author bio head shot GearJunkie
390 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.


waterfall in midst of fall foliage

pot on gsi glacier stove on fuel

north cascades national park wildfire

aerial view of coastline and beach and ocean

selfie of a person smiling in a green rain jacket

overview of bluff with river

lighthouse on beach

keen hightrail

author wearing the swift x pack while testing in oregon state

bears ears national monument intertribal coalition

Yellowstone Grizzly

Yosemite,National,Park,,United,States:,May,16,,2019:,People,Enjoying

Mosquito on Skin

Sweet Summer Sales From Howler Brothers, Black Diamond, On, and More

bear bag tied to picnic bench

biker stands at viewpoint of mountain

person stands next to helicopter in mountains

beach access stairs with blue water

grove of trees with sun shining

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