Maddie Downie
Writing for Switchback Travel is the perfect blend of my two favorite things: playing outside and playing with words.Â
My writing experience is rooted in poetry and fiction, and I graduated in 2022 with a Master's Degree in Creative Writing from Western Washington University. Though I was raised camping, 14er-bagging, and horseback riding in Colorado, I quickly fell in love with the rugged North Cascades and dove head-first into rock climbing, backcountry skiing, and the art of PNW bushwhacking—anything that gets me to the top of those peaks.
Last Updated: December 19, 2024
It almost goes without saying: Dinnertime is one of the best parts of any backpacking trip. There’s just nothing quite like warm, filling food after a long day on the trail. We've been eating our way through the market to bring you our favorites since...
Last Updated: December 18, 2024
As your outermost layer, your ski jacket plays a key role in keeping you comfortable and protected from the elements. The jacket market has expanded in recent years, covering everything from warm and cozy insulated resort pieces to light, breathable...
Last Updated: December 18, 2024
Synthetic insulation is a bit of a miracle material: It’s breathable, water-resistant, and modern blends come impressively close to matching the loft and light weight of down. We’ll lounge around in our down jacket any day, but for performance use it’s...
Last Updated: December 18, 2024
Ski jackets get all the glory, but a pair of quality pants is equally important for keeping you warm and dry on the slopes. Today’s designs range from waterproof and insulated resort options to full-coverage bibs and stretch-infused offerings built for...