Jen was born and raised in the beautiful, but land-locked, state of Colorado. As a child, she spent almost every summer camping, hiking, and backpacking in the mountains, which awakened her passion for the natural world. Her love of travel originated at an early age, by parents who introduced their children to the value of exploration. Jen started her naturalist career as a motor coach driver and guide in Alaska. She immediately fell in love with the amazing beauty and wildness of the place. After a few years, she transitioned to small ships as a naturalist and expedition leader.
She has guided trips around a large portion of the Pacific Rim, from Mexico up the coast of North America, along the shores of Asia, and across the South Pacific from Guam to the Marquesas. The incredible diversity of wildlife, interactions with different indigenous cultures and the amazing landscapes have cemented the Bering Sea, Japan, and the remote islands of Micronesia as some of her favorite places in the world. She has also guided trips through much of Europe. Jen truly enjoys being able to balance travel and work in natural history-focused destinations as well as those important for their cultural and historical significance.
Currently, she resides in the Pacific Northwest, offering the best blend of mountains and sea Jen has found so far. She takes every available opportunity to explore small corners of the world along with the abundant nature at her doorstep.
