Maddie Downie
Writing for Switchback Travel is the perfect blend of my two favorite things: playing outside and playing with words.
My writing experience is rooted in poetry and fiction, and I graduated in 2022 with a Master's Degree in Creative Writing from Western Washington University. Though I was raised camping, 14er-bagging, and horseback riding in Colorado, I quickly fell in love with the rugged North Cascades and dove head-first into rock climbing, backcountry skiing, and the art of PNW bushwhacking—anything that gets me to the top of those peaks.
Last Updated: July 14, 2025
Hiking boots are critical to your comfort and performance on the trail, but this no longer means a stiff and burly model that will weigh you down. The trend is toward lighter materials that still offer decent support, and waterproof boots...
Last Updated: September 9, 2025
While jackets are certainly a flashier and more exciting layer to shop for, staying comfortable outdoors starts with a quality baselayer. These next-to-skin pieces play a fundamental role in temperature regulation by pulling moisture away from your...
Last Updated: January 3, 2025
Nothing is more satisfying or adrenaline-inducing than slaying fresh powder in the heart of the backcountry, but you’ll need the right gear to accomplish your ski objectives. Our detailed backcountry skiing checklist below covers everything from...
Last Updated: April 18, 2025
Your baselayer may not be the most exciting part of your layering system, but make no mistake: It’s certainly one of the most important. As your next-to-skin article of clothing, baselayers are tasked with the all-important duties of pulling moisture...
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