Growing up in Canada’s Arctic (first Iqaluit, then Yellowknife), Annessa knows the importance of daylight for the soul. There were many long, hot summer days where it felt like the sun never went down and the energy was endless! However, there were even more long, dark and cold days. It was in the winter season that Annessa realized the importance of getting outside to soak in the little amount of daylight there was. Cross-country skiing, running and dog-walking are among her favourite winter activities. This principle of finding energy in the sun has carried over to her move to the Rocky Mountains, and later with having her children, Oaklyn and Austin. Time goes by quicker while you’re out adventuring!

Although never the “sporty” type, Chesa recognized the positive influence physical activity had on her health and well-being from a young age. Movement of all kinds has shaped her life! She spent most of her 20’s living out of a backpack (either travelling or hiking), she practices/teaches yoga, and she has a degree in Kinesiology. In 2015, she met a Mountain Guide named Matt. It was love at first summit and shortly after, she followed her heart to the Bow Valley. Although, Matt and Chesa are different in many ways, their values align. They share a love for getting out and exploring! When they discussed having kids, they knew they wanted to infuse their values into family life. Chesa loves her new role as mountain mama to Juniper and Ruby, and is grateful for this community to share and strategize with.

Hailing from northern Ontario, Jess spent lots of time skiing on the Canadian Shield. Upon moving out west in 2009, she continued doing just that… and more! Although she was comfortable being uncomfortable, she struggled with developing the patience to improve her skills. Over time, she took on more challenges with the encouragement of her friends and partner. After welcoming their daughter, Sara, she had to start from square one. Luckily, Jess was still good at embracing discomfort, as her daughter would sometimes scream from the mountaintops. At least she didn’t need to worry about the wildlife, eh?! Experiences involving patience and pushing past her comfort zone have been continuing themes for her as a mother and a recreationalist. This summer, Jess welcomed her son, Sidney, and they’ve been travelling within and out of the country since.

Raised in the bustling city of Lima, Peru, Kelsea arrived in Vancouver a decade ago to study Natural Resources Conservation at the University of British Columbia. In between school years, she decided to spend a summer in Canmore, where she almost immediately fell in love with the Rocky Mountains (and her now-husband). After graduating, she put down roots here. Having played a variety of sports growing up, it felt right for her to pick up outdoor activities (even those involving snow: an extremely novice concept to her!). Upon finding out they were unexpectedly expecting, Kelsea instantly panicked about her fun-loving lifestyle coming to a halt. To her surprise: the adventures have only become more rewarding with Indy and Eden in tow.

Born and raised in Banff, Mallory grew up hiking to ACC huts in the summers and skiing down the slopes of Lake Louise and Norquay in the winters. Despite her attempts to live life in different cities, she found her spirit was brightest in the mountains. While working at Moraine Lake Lodge, she met her husband, Sean. Now, they have Ollie and Rose to share their love of music and the outdoors with. Her degree in Geology comes in handy when exploring and teaching others about the natural history of the Canadian Rockies. From glacial watersheds to wildlife, she will find any opportunity to nerd out or sing a song on the trails. Mal believes parenting is harder at home than it is in the bush or on the road, and knows that the key to planning a family trip is knowing where the playgrounds are (but also the micro-breweries!).

Hailing from Mallorca, Spain, Yoli flew to Vancouver with her partner in 2017, with the intention of spending a year exploring western Canada before returning home. That spring, they drove their motorhome to the Bow Valley and never left. Fast-forward five years, and they have established a family in Canmore, with their chihuahua, Mosque, and their son, Teix. Becoming a first-time mother while dealing with the immigration process was extremely challenging for Yoli. Nonetheless, she found the motivation to carry through with it every time she would bring Teix outdoors. Envisioning the adventurous lifestyle they could have here as a family, made her feel as though the challenge was completely worthwhile. They are on track to become Permanent Residents now, and they take advantage of each and every day they get to spend here.