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: December 13, 2024
Skis, bindings, and boots get a lot of attention in the touring world, but don’t overlook your humble climbing skins. Most importantly, you want to match the design and materials to your local terrain and snow conditions to optimize performance. Some...
Last Updated: January 30, 2025
As the critical link that transfers your body's energy and movements to your board, snowboard bindings are an essential component of your setup. Choosing the right bindings can significantly impact your performance and overall experience on the...
Last Updated: December 9, 2024
Bindings aren’t the flashiest piece of ski gear you’ll buy, but they’re certainly a foundational one. As the connection between boot and ski, they play a fundamental role in power transfer, responsiveness, and safety. When purchasing an alpine binding...
Last Updated: June 11, 2025
Despite their diminutive size, fitness watches can really pack a punch. These modern timepieces put the power of a GPS device onto your wrist, allowing you to track your movements, follow a preloaded route, or even navigate complex terrain—hands-free...
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