About Me

From Girl Scout Camp to Fastpacking Guide: 

My Journey into the Backcountry

I didn’t grow up camping, but I always loved the outdoors. My favorite week every summer was Girl Scout camp. In college, I signed up for a backpacking class by myself, simply because I wanted to learn. I spent a couple summers working at a Girl Scout camp in my home state of Wisconsin, leading troops on overnight camping, canoeing, and kayaking trips. I also spent a couple summers  taking adults with special needs on outdoor camping trips in Minnesota – learning patience, courage, and the joy of helping others discover nature.

After graduation, I went on my first “real” backpacking trip – into the backcountry of Yellowstone National Park. Sleeping under the stars, hiking with friends, and waking up to quiet sunrises… I was hooked.

Discovering Fastpacking

I started my teaching career, and a few years later got married and started a family. I began taking my daughters camping when they were little – even backpacking just a mile or two into the woods. But I longed for something more – a way to go farther, lighter, and faster.

That’s when I discovered ultrarunning and I completed a few 100 mile races, but I now wanted to be able to enjoy going long in the woods without the pressure of a clock.  This led me into fastpacking – a blend of ultralight backpacking and trail running. I could pause to take photos, enjoy sunrises, sunsets, and sleep under the stars. It was the perfect blend of trail running and camping.

For a couple years, I dreamed about going on my first fastpacking trip, but fear kept me from trying. I didn’t know anyone who wanted to run with a pack. Then I read a book by Jenny Tough about her solo adventures across mountain ranges. I thought, If she can do that, I can at least camp overnight by myself in Wisconsin.

So I prepared. I researched gear, practiced running with a pack, and did a local overnight trip to face my fears. Nervous but determined, I finally set out for my first big adventure – 43 miles in 48 hours along Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore.

It was hard.

It was scary.

It was beautiful. 

And it was one of the most empowering things I’ve ever done.

Why I Guide

Since then, I’ve taken more trips and started guiding women who want to experience the same courage, beauty, and growth. I've fastpacked on the Ice Age Trail, the North Country Trail, the Colorado Trail, and the Arizona Trail. 

I know what it’s like to want adventure, but not know where to start – to wonder if you’re capable, if you’ll be safe, or if you belong out there. That’s why I created Fastpacking with Laura, LLC – to be the guide I wish I had when I began.

I teach women what to pack, how to plan, where to go, and how to rely on themselves in the backcountry.

Because fastpacking isn’t just about miles.

It’s about becoming who you were meant to be.

Are ready to discover what you’re capable of? 

Join me for a fastpacking or ultralight backpacking trip and experience the magic of courage, challenge, and freedom in the wilderness.

~ Laura 🙂❤️

(Just a note: I am CPR and First-Aid Certified)