Meet Maggie McCann, a 23-year-old guide whose roots in the Oregon Cascades planted the seeds for a life of adventure and connection in the outdoors. With a degree in 
Environmental Earth & Soil Science from Cal Poly San Luis Obispo and a WFR certification, Maggie brings both heart and knowledge to every trail she treads.
From High School Treks to Guiding Trails 
Maggie’s love for the outdoors started early—thanks to backpacking and climbing trips with her high school’s outdoor program. “Growing up in the Oregon Cascades,” she says, “I was lucky to be surrounded by nature. The guides I had back then were so wonderful and inspiring.”
Her journey into guiding was also shaped by a best friend who introduced her to Idaho’s vibrant river community. 
These early experiences sparked not just a passion for adventure, but a calling to help others experience the same magic.
Why Lasting Adventures? 
Though Maggie is relatively new to guiding with Lasting Adventures, she’s already found what sets this community apart. “I love the community embedded in this company—not only with the staff, but with the guests as well,” she says. “Creating connection is so important in my life, especially when it’s in nature.” 
Inner Beast? 
Osprey
If Maggie were an animal, she’d be an osprey—fitting for someone who lives and thrives around rivers, mountains, and ocean breezes.
Coffee, Curry, and the Creative Life 
When she’s not guiding, Maggie’s all about creativity and connection. She enjoys making and drinking coffee, getting her hands into photography in the darkroom 
, strumming guitar 
, hiking (of course) 
, and spending time in the ocean.
On trail, you might catch her humming American Dreaming by Sierra Ferrell—one of those songs that sticks in your head and somehow fits the wilderness perfectly. 
Favorite Backcountry Meal: Thai Red Curry 
Maggie’s go-to backcountry meal? A mouthwatering Thai Red Curry with tofu, onion, broccoli, bell pepper, lime, and peanuts over rice—a recipe she credits to fellow guides Ella and John. “It hits the spot every time,” she says. 
Favorite Yosemite Spot 
One view that holds a special place in her heart is about six miles from the Lyell Canyon trailhead along the JMT. “There’s a river running along granite slabs, through a meadow, overlooking pine-covered hills,” she says. “It feels like you’re the only person out there—it’s magical.” 
What Guides Really Do 
To Maggie, one of the most important things guides offer is empowerment through knowledge. “When I was younger, learning backcountry skills made me feel more capable—it inspired me to get out there more,” she says. She also emphasizes the importance of teaching guests how to respect and care for the environment.
Her practical tip? Don’t forget your headlamp 
. And maybe leave the cast iron skillet 
at home.
A Memorable Moment on the Trail 
One of Maggie’s most treasured guiding memories is from a trip for a guest’s 50th birthday. 
“She brought her two best friends and partner. Getting up Half Dome was mentally challenging for some, but once we reached the summit, they sat together overlooking the park in this quiet, emotional moment. You could feel all the love between them—it meant so much to her.” 
Influential Mentors & Values 
Maggie’s high school teachers, Pete Hoffmeister and Jeff Hess, were pivotal in shaping her understanding of the natural world. “They introduced me to climbing and gave me a foundation that I carry into guiding today,” she reflects.
Maggie’s Top Three Guide Qualities 
- Safety
- A good sense of humor
- Clear communication
Whether she’s helping a guest summit Half Dome or teaching Leave No Trace principles, Maggie embodies these traits and more. We’re lucky to have her on the team—and we can’t wait to see where the trail takes her next. 
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