Episode 5: Kelly Selzler- Personal trainer, photographer and mountaineer who LOVES to break trail!

Summary: Kelly Selzler, an active climber and nature photographer, shares her journey into peak bagging and her love for the Pacific Northwest. She discusses her move from Ohio to Washington State and her early experiences hiking and climbing in the region. Kelly emphasizes the importance of following one's own journey and not getting caught up in chasing lists or comparing oneself to others. She also shares her passion for photography and gardening, and offers advice for beginners in the climbing community. Takeaways: Follow your own journey and don't compare yourself to others. Solo climbing can provide a sense of accomplishment and solitude. Use resources like peakbagger.com and Gaia for route finding and beta. Stay safe and communicate with tools like the inReach Mini. Find joy in the process and don't get too focused on checking off peaks. Chapters: (00:00) Introduction and Background (02:10) Moving to the Pacific Northwest (03:00) Getting into Peak Bagging (04:24) First Solo Hike (05:49) Influence of Father (06:48) Hiking with Children (09:06) Balancing Peak Bagging with Family and Work (10:29) Solo Climbing and Route Finding (12:23) Pace and Compatibility with Climbing Partners (13:19) Benefits of Solo Climbing (14:17) Finding Routes and Beta (17:31) Working on the Bulgers List (18:49) Not Keeping Track of Peak Count (19:44) Memorable Climbing Trips (21:38) Challenges and Rewards of Climbing (23:25) Love for Photography and Gardening (25:46) Getting into Photography (27:37) Photography Gear and Taking Photos (28:34) Mentors and Influences (29:56) Advice for Beginners (31:21) Safety and Communication (33:12) Discovering PNW Peak Baggers (34:41) Benefits of Being in the Group (35:40) Female Perspective in Mountaineering (38:04) Hobbies and Time Management (39:01) Advice on Safety and Enjoyment42:05Closing Remarks