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.


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two skiers overlook snowy mountain

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Silver medalist USA's Ben Ogden celebrates as he crosses the finish line during the men's cross-country sprint classic final event of the Milano-Cortina 2026 Winter Olympic Games at Tesero Cross-Country Skiing Stadium in Lago di Tesero (Val di Fiemme), on Feb. 10, 2026; (photo/Anne-Christine Poujoulat/AFP via Getty Images)

desert landscape with cacti

aerial view of beach with people walking

visitors stand in line outside at national park

visitors watch from afar as volcano erupts

two skiers on a 3 person chairlift on a sunny day

indoor climbing gym with people

sled dogs pull people in snow

Baby deer crossing the trail in Catalina

gateway arch at sunset

close up shot of person wearing outdoor slippers in woods

Want to Get Your Thru-Hike Paid For? These 5 Programs Cover Costs & Offer Free Gear

Fallen tree blocks access to nature area

white pick up truck going off road

Smartwool Lifestyle7 2024 25

oil rig toppled over on snow

Rescue team works in snow at night

People hike up snowy mountain

Wolf

Patagonia Hi-Loft Nano Puff Hoody

lake with forest

aerial view of ocean with island

yeti snack box

TheJackson Hole Ski Patrol union

a wolverine

Headed out for skiing fun wearing Turtle Fur layers

REI strike