Hi, I'm Kati.  I grew up in the Pacific Northwest, and discovered my love for the nature in college.  As a young woman, I often struggled to find accessible information for beginner outdoorswomen.  I was met with gatekeeping and sexism - so I decided to launch Kati Explores in 2018.

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I started out on Instagram, with the intention of sharing important, easy-to-swallow facts about every new place I explored.  My goal was to do the opposite of gatekeep: to make a sometimes intimidating world feel safe and easily accessible for people of all backgrounds and skill levels.

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My life changed in 2020, when I made a reckless but brilliant decision to move to Pennsylvania for someone I met while climbing Mount St Helens.  Long story short, the relationship was an abusive trainwreck, and he actually forbade me from sharing anything online - so Kati Explores took a brief pause.

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During this time, I drove cross-country and explored the East Coast on my own, often sleeping in my Subaru Crosstrek.  I spent a summer in Ironwood, Michigan, where I now own a house that you can rent on AirBnb.  This stupid decision to uproot my life for a stranger was actually the best thing I could have done for myself - I traveled to 45 states and 28 National Parks, mostly solo.  I gained so much confidence in myself (nothing inspires me more than being told I can't do something), so despite the insanity of that year, I am so happy I made the jump.

 

In fall 2021 when the relationship ended, I drove home to Portland, Oregon, where I almost immediately met my now-husband.  It's funny how life works out when you least expect it!  We've spent the past 4 years together exploring the PNW and beyond.  He is a talented photographer and experienced mountaineer, and helps with my content from time-to-time.

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Now, Kati Explores is back and better than ever - Instagram, TikTok, an adventure blog, long-form travel itineraries, and even interactive guides to the PNW.  I'm excited to share more in 2026, including my favorite biking trails, suburban nature parks, road trip itineraries, and more!  Sign up for email notifications and follow me on social media.  I would be honored to help you find your next adventure.

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