In this edition of our Guide Spotlight Series, we’re thrilled to introduce Olivia Hockley-Rodes—a bright, passionate, and adventurous soul bringing her energy and curiosity to her first season of guiding with Lasting Adventures in Olympic National Park!
👋 Meet Olivia
Name: Olivia Hockley-Rodes
Hometown: Los Angeles, CA
Guiding Experience: First year guiding, second season with Lasting Adventures
Education: B.S. in Engineering, Harvey Mudd College
Certifications: WFR, AIARE 1, LNT Level 1 Instructor
🌄 A Love for the Outdoors, Sparked in Yosemite
Olivia’s journey into the backcountry began right where many of our guests do—on a Lasting Adventures trip! Back in 2015, she took her first-ever backpacking trip in Yosemite with our team, and something clicked. Since then, the wilderness has become her classroom, sanctuary, and source of joy.
“All of my incredible outdoor educators taught me how to live and learn in the backcountry. They’re the ones who inspired me to become a guide.”
🌞 Why Guiding Matters
What excites Olivia most about guiding? It’s the connections—those small, powerful moments of bonding that only happen in wild, beautiful places.
“I love getting to form a tiny community and share life experiences in a beautiful place together.”
She sees her role as more than just leading hikes—it’s about offering insight and deeper understanding of the landscapes guests explore.
“Guides are invaluable for providing context and answering questions about the spaces we travel through.”
🧭 Olivia’s Trail Vibe
- Spirit Animal: A marmot—”I love lounging on rocks in the sun and eating snacks.”
- Favorite Trail Song (even if uninvited): Christmas songs… yes, even in July!
- Top Backcountry Meal: A full breakfast feast—pancakes, eggs, sausages, and more.
- Favorite Yosemite View: From Sunrise High Sierra Camp, overlooking the sweeping meadows below.
🌊 Beyond the Trail
When Olivia’s not guiding, you’ll probably find her in or on the water—skiing, kayaking, canoeing, or rafting. She’s eyeing up biking and packrafting next. There’s always a new adventure around the bend.
🏕️ Pro Tips from Olivia
- Most important piece of gear? “Whatever keeps you comfortable while sleeping—pillow, pajamas, even a stuffed animal.”
- What to leave behind? “Deodorant. Everything is going to stink—no need for good-smelling pits!”
🤠 Favorite Guiding Memory
One of Olivia’s most memorable moments from her time with Lasting Adventures? A “moo-off” around a campfire overlooking Half Dome between two summer camp groups. Yes, it was as delightfully strange and fun as it sounds.
💡 Guiding Wisdom
In both guiding and outdoor education, Olivia believes in three core values:
“All guides should be curious, generous, and passionate.”
We’re so excited to have Olivia on the Lasting Adventures team in Olympic National Park this year! Keep an eye out for more ‘Meet the Guide’ stories as we introduce the passionate individuals behind your next big adventure!