Mountain Vitals: Women in the outdoors
In the rugged world of outdoor adventure, a remarkable cohort of women is making waves, redefining boundaries, and leaving an indelible mark on the landscape. From seasoned athletes to visionary leaders, these trailblazers are revolutionizing the outdoors. Let’s meet the women leading the charge.
Sarah Sturm
Occupation: Graphic Designer, Professional Cyclist
Location: Durango, Colorado
Sarah Sturm’s journey from soccer fields to cycling podiums is a testament to her resilience and adaptability. Despite initially pursuing soccer at Fort Lewis College, she found her true passion on two wheels. Over a decade later, Sturm clinched her first national title, a testament to her tenacity and dedication to her craft. Embracing Durango’s unconventional spirit, she thrives amidst challenges, leveraging adversity to fuel her success.
Kitty Calhoun
Occupation: Celebrated Alpinist, Co-owner of Chicks Climbing and Skiing
Location: Castle Valley, Utah/Ouray, Colorado
Kitty Calhoun’s love affair with climbing propelled her from the mountains of North Carolina to the peaks of the world. Venturing westward in pursuit of adventure, she embarked on a nomadic journey, honing her skills and exploring diverse landscapes. As a pioneering guide and co-owner of Chicks Climbing and Skiing, Calhoun empowers women to conquer new heights, fostering a community of fearless females in traditionally male-dominated realms.
Shelley Silbert
Occupation: Executive Director, Great Old Broads for Wilderness
Location: Durango, Colorado, and Nationwide
At the helm of Great Old Broads for Wilderness, Shelley Silbert spearheads a nationwide movement to safeguard public lands and wildlife. Leading with passion and purpose, Silbert galvanizes a network of advocates spanning coast to coast, amplifying their voices and effecting change at the grassroots level. With tireless dedication, she champions environmental stewardship, uniting diverse voices in defense of our natural heritage.
Lindsey Hamm
Occupation: Mountain Guide, 2016 Gore-Tex Scholarship Recipient, American Mountain Guide Association
Location: Ouray, Colorado; Asia; Bishop, California
Lindsey Hamm epitomizes the spirit of adventure, charting unexplored territories and guiding clients to summits around the globe. As a recipient of the prestigious Gore-Tex Scholarship, Hamm blazes trails in the alpine realm, pushing her limits and inspiring others to pursue their dreams. With unwavering determination and a penchant for challenge, she embodies the ethos of fearless exploration, encouraging fellow adventurers to embrace uncertainty and chase their aspirations.
In the tapestry of outdoor adventure, these women stand as beacons of courage, resilience, and empowerment. With each ascent, each pedal stroke, and each advocacy effort, they redefine what it means to thrive in the wild. As the outdoor landscape evolves, their contributions serve as a testament to the enduring spirit of female adventurers everywhere.