About

Hello there!

I’m Cat Eckrode (she/her),
and I am The Outdoor Adventure Kind.

As the Chief Outdoor Adventurer here, my role is to assist you on your path towards the outdoor adventures you are dreaming of! Let me tell you a little bit about myself, and my path to adventure. Then, let me help you blaze your own trail.

When I started hiking, I was out of shape, felt out of place, lacked any outdoor skills, had no idea what gear I should have, plus I faced well-intended doubts from others as obstacles every time I set out for the trail. Today, I’m not only confident in my own abilities as a hiker but in those who haven’t even started hiking yet!

Through amazing experiences, a lot of research, and personal growth I’ve learned how many great benefits can come from hiking. The skills and joy found in outdoor adventure spills over into everyday life. I also firmly believe the outdoors are truly for everyone to enjoy. I want to help others from all walks of life to gain these same benefits. 

My primary mission is to introduce others to hiking and build a foundation of basic outdoors skills & knowledge which leaves each individual with a sense of self-confidence and empowerment to be carried both on and off the trail. Everyone can become The Outdoor Adventure Kind.

Once you’re hooked on the outdoors, the word adventure opens up to mean so many things beyond hiking: backpacking, snowshoeing, photography, bird watching, wildlife encounters, waterfall chasing, drawing, painting, foraging – it really is an endless list. 

This is why I say, the adventure is just the beginning!

I pair my passion for exploring the outdoors with my professional background, including experience as a leader and a coach. When introducing others to hiking basics, I make a point of sharing ethical and sustainable practices that respect nature and all others who enjoy the outdoors. This includes Leave No Trace principles as well as other best practices to enjoy the outdoors while limiting human impact on the natural world.

In addition, I also donate to local trusted organizations who support outdoor spaces for everyone. Trailkeepers of Oregon and Friends of the Columbia Gorge are two non-profits who do so much work to maintain trails, restore wilderness areas, educate the public, and provide valuable resources to the hiking community in Oregon and beyond.

As a photographer, my goal is to preserve “true to the moment” images that invoke a desire to experience the outdoors. I am also a proud member of Nature First: The Alliance for Responsible Nature Photography and I’m dedicated to following the Nature First Principles. Through The OAK, I aim to support other outdoor adventurers and artists who capture the spirit of outdoor adventure. One of the best ways to share the world is through creative endeavors. Inspiration can be infectious!

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