Laurel Walker
Mountain Athlete, Guide, Coach
Boulder, COIt doesn't matter how many times you fall down; get back up and keep moving forward.
I am a rock guide, ultrarunning coach, and athlete specializing in mountain sports. With a 10+ year background in competitive ultrarunning, I now uses that endurance and drive to not only pursue running but also a variety of climbing styles, as well as backcountry skiing. I enjoy moving efficiently through the mountains whether that be on skis; rock, ice, or mixed climbing; running, or combo of them all. When I'm not out pursuing my own projects, you can find me mentoring others in the outdoors.
Discipline: Ultrarunning, rock, ice, and alpine climbing, backcountry skiing
Specialty: Ultrarunning and rock climbing
Bronze: 2017 USATF Utah State 100k Trail Championships 5x finisher of Mountain Marathon (dubbed the "Toughest 5k on the Planet" by Outside Magazine). Multiple podium and top-ten finishes at trail races ranging from 5k to 100 miles.
Laurel Walker's Expert Gear Recommendations
Climbing and Mountaineering
- Latok 20L Mountain Pack by Rab — This is hands-down the best on-route pack I've found! It is durable, lightweight, has two front pockets for easy access, and the shoulder straps and front closures fit like a running vest. It stays put!
- STORM - Helmet by Camp
- Skwama Vegan by La Sportiva — This is my favorite sport climbing shoe. I like the vegan version because it fits exactly right from the first day you wear it.
- TC Pro by La Sportiva — Fun pro tip: Get these a little big; your toes will thank you on a long and/or cold day. I know mine do.
- Women's Alpine Light Pants by Black Diamond — I live in these!
- Women's Alpenglow Pro Hoody by Black Diamond — I love the weight of this, the fit and the stretchy nature.
- NOMIC by Petzl
- VIINSON COMP GLOVE by Aniiu — The best glove I've ever worn for drytooling
- GRIGRI ®