Valerie Peckarsky

Valerie lived in Virginia for the first 20 years of her life, and didn’t give mountains much thought until she spent a summer post-college working at a restaurant in Yellowstone National Park. That summer, a very kind and patient friend took her up Middle Teton, and it was game over. She knew that the outdoors, and mountains in particular, would continue to play a key role in her life. Since then, Valerie has adventured and worked in Washington, Utah, California, and Alaska. Her favorite plant is sagebrush, and her favorite non-outdoor activity is participating in impromptu dance parties.

Take 5 with the Guide

Most beloved book
The Gifts of Imperfection By Brené Brown

Guilty Pleasure
Mint chocolate chip Clif Builder’s bars: the only candy bar with 20 grams of protein.

Dream rope team / climbing partner for your dream climb?
I want to thrash my way up the Steck-Salathe with the Wide Boyz (Pete Whittaker and Tom Randall)

If you could be stuck with anyone (past or present) at base camp for a week
My friend’s dog, Jackson. He’s a good boy. We also share an affinity for peanut butter.

What was your first mountain? When did you climb it? Who were you with?
Mary’s Rock in the Appalachians. I was 6 or 7. I went with my brother and dad and some family friends on a dads and kids hiking trip. Pretty sure I cried because I was too pee-shy to pee in the woods.