If you’ve ever wondered what it takes to keep Lasting Adventures’ Olympic National Park program running smoothly, look no further than Hannah Jeruc—the powerhouse behind the scenes who somehow manages to blend logistical mastery, youth mentorship, and a love of gummies into one incredible role.
Hannah’s story doesn’t begin in a ranger station or alpine meadow, but in the Midwest. Growing up in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, she didn’t immediately picture herself building a career in the outdoor industry. That spark ignited later, thanks to a student-run outdoor recreation club at Lawrence University. “I started attending and leading backpacking trips with fellow students,” she says. “It snowballed from there!”
With a background in theater education and mentorship, Hannah found a natural path into outdoor education—one that blended her talents for leadership, teaching, and adventure into a single meaningful career.
What a Site Director Really Does (Hint: It’s Not an Office Job)
As the Site Director for Lasting Adventures’ Olympic program, Hannah’s world changes shape depending on the season. During the busy summer months, weekends mean early mornings at trailheads, coordinating transportation, helping guides prepare for trips, debriefing after groups return, and making sure every detail behind the scenes supports a seamless (and safe!) guest experience.
Weekdays are a blend of logistics, paperwork, planning, and supply runs—and yes, she’s often on call to respond to emergencies.
But despite how administrative that might sound, Hannah is quick to clarify: “It might seem like an office job from the outside, but I actually get to spend a lot of hands-on time interacting with and supporting youth, staff, and parents. I’m on my feet way more often than at a desk.”
Impact, Growth, and a Program She’s Proud Of
When asked what she values most about working at Lasting Adventures, Hannah lights up—figuratively and literally. “I feel fulfilled to work for an organization whose mission is getting youth outdoors, especially those who may not otherwise have the opportunity.”
She’s also incredibly proud of how far the Olympic program has come under the team’s collective leadership. Enrollment has grown steadily, permitting and logistical systems have become more streamlined, and the program has built meaningful partnerships with the park service, forest service, and local businesses.
“It’s certainly a team effort,” she says, “but I’d like to think my dedication and expertise have played a role in our growth.”
We think so too.
The Fun Stuff: Hannah’s Outdoor Vibes
If Hannah were an animal? Easy. Her cat, Garbanzo. (No further explanation needed—we respect it.)
Other passions include skiing (lots of skiing), mountaineering, climbing, and packrafting. When she’s on trail, she’s fueled by gummies and occasionally serenaded internally by Just Keep Swimming from Finding Nemo, which—honestly—is peak trail energy.
Her favorite view in Olympic National Park? The sweeping 360-degree panorama from the High Divide Trail, one of the most iconic vantage points in the entire park.
Hannah’s Advice for Guests & First-Time Backpackers
Most important gear to bring:
Rain gear and comfortable hiking shoes.
What to leave behind:
Excess toiletries and beauty products. They add weight and invite bear curiosity—never a good combo.
Her best advice for new backpackers:
“Just do your best and have a good time!” Simple, solid, and exactly right.
Why Her Work Matters
Hannah believes deeply in the impact Lasting Adventures has on youth and guests. “If people can’t get out into the landscapes that make up our public land, they won’t feel motivated to protect it.”
By teaching guests about the places they explore, she hopes each person walks away with not just memories, but a lasting sense of stewardship. Every trip becomes a ripple—spreading awareness, connection, and appreciation for wild spaces.
We’re lucky to have Hannah leading the charge in Olympic National Park.
Her expertise, enthusiasm, and heart help shape unforgettable experiences for every guest who steps onto the trail. And if you happen to hear someone humming Just Keep Swimming near the trailhead… well, now you know who it is.
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