Will is a writer, journalist, and professional misfit based out of the Roaring Fork Valley of Colorado. Will grew up on the Western Slope of the Rocky Mountains, reenacting “Survivorman” episodes and studying books like “Hatchet,” “The Monkey Wrench Gang,” and “Into the Wild.” He’s written on topics ranging from cannabis to local news, the environment and, of course, outdoor gear and adventure. If he’s not banging stories out on his computer, you’ll probably find Will skiing or mountain biking (depending on the season) — or drinking beer at some remote craft brewery.
Title: Camp, Hike & Backpack Section Editor, Asst. Ski Editor Email: wbrendza@gearjunkie.com Location: Glenwood Springs, Colo. Social Media: https://www.instagram.com/juanwilder/
Expertise
Topics of Expertise: Hiking, Backpacking, Camping, Skiing, Mountain Biking
Years in This Expertise: 15+
Number of Products & Number of Hours Expert Has Tested: 200+ products, 2,000+ hours
Education & Certifications
Education: Bachelor of Arts, University of Colorado at Boulder
Years of Writing: 10+
Certifications: Avalanche 1, WFR, CPR
Club or Association Memberships: 10th Mountain Division Hut Association
Awards or Recognitions: Awards from Society of Professional Journalists for articles from 2019, 2020, and 2022; Nominated for AAN best column award in 2022; winner of Camp Cold’s “Happy Camper” award in 2020
I’m a writer, journalist, and professional misfit based out of the Roaring Fork Valley of Colorado. I grew up on the Western Slope of the Rocky Mountains, reenacting “Survivorman” episodes and studying books like “Hatchet,” “The Monkey Wrench Gang,” and “Into the Wild.” I’ve written on topics ranging from cannabis to local news, the environment, and, of course, outdoor gear and adventure. If I’m not banging stories out on my computer, you’ll probably find me skiing or mountain biking (depending on the season) — or drinking beer at some remote craft brewery.
The Italian footwear company AKU released a new hiking boot called the Rocket that’s comfortable out of the box, and supposedly offers 25% more traction.
After historic snowfall, California’s high country still poses major risks to hikers, climbers, and skiers according to search and rescue teams — a recent avalanche fatality…
In the heart of Salt Lake City, brands convened for a smaller-than-usual Outdoor Retailer exhibition, but still jam-packed with innovative outdoor gear.
Meet the app that scans over 12,500 campgrounds looking for recent cancellations so you can book last-minute campsites whenever you need them: CampScanner.
Alan Salazar has been building authentic Chumash canoe tomols since 1997 and recreating a treacherous journey his Native American ancestors used them to make.
Saucony has become a favorite shoe brand among runners for its light weights, durability, and underfoot comfort. Now it’s breaking into the world of hiking…
