About Summit Trail Outfitters
Founded in 2012 by two former wilderness guides, committed to safe, sustainable, and unforgettable outdoor adventure.
Our Story
After years of guiding separately, founders Ava Chen and Marcus Webb joined forces to create a company that prioritized small group sizes, certified guides, and Leave No Trace principles from day one.
What began with three tours in a single valley has grown to more than forty routes across the Pacific Northwest — but the core commitment has never changed.
We operate in the Cascade Range, the Olympic Peninsula, and the Columbia River Gorge. Every trail we run is selected for its ecological significance and the quality of the experience it delivers.
Our Guides
Every Summit Trail Outfitters guide holds Wilderness First Responder certification and completes annual recertification in navigation, weather reading, and group management.
Ava Chen
Co-Founder & Lead Guide
Ava has been guiding in the Cascades for over fifteen years. She specializes in alpine terrain and has led more than 400 summit ascents.
Marcus Webb
Co-Founder & Operations
Marcus brings a background in ecology and wilderness medicine. His route knowledge of the Olympic Peninsula is unmatched in the region.
Elena Park
Senior Guide
Elena joined STO in 2018 after a decade as a park ranger. She leads most of our overnight trips and writes for the STO blog.
Our Commitment
- Maximum group sizes enforced on every tour
- Leave No Trace training for all participants
- Trail restoration volunteer days each spring
- Carbon offset on all company travel