Hi, I’m Chris, also known as TrailChick! You might better know me from my Where in the Wild is Chris? Instagram and Facebook accounts. I’m a photographer, storyteller, and seasonal fire lookout, living off-grid in the beautiful Methow Valley of North Central Washington with my two horses, Pip and Aurora, and my cattle dog, Hudson.
What started as a blog to document my travels and backcountry adventures has evolved into a deep archive of fire lookout history, photography, trip reports, and stories. Between 2017 and 2019, I embarked on a journey to visit and photograph every standing historical fire lookout in Washington State. I completed my goal on July 1, 2019, after driving nearly 20,000 miles, hiking and biking over 500 miles, and climbing a total of 140,000 feet.
My passion for fire lookouts led me to actually become a seasonal fire lookout myself. In 2021, I staffed Goat Peak in Mazama, Washington, just north of my home. My rookie season was unforgettable. I reported five fire starts, watched the Varden, Cedar Creek, and Cub Creek 2 fires take hold, and was evacuated after only 18 days on duty. I’ve returned every summer since, advocating for the importance of lookouts in fire management, communications, and community connection.
In 2022, I founded the Methow Valley Forest Fire Lookout Association, a sub-chapter of the national Forest Fire Lookout Association, to provide volunteer support and financial assistance for restoring and maintaining the eight historic lookout sites in the Methow Valley.
Staffing a fire lookout and living off-grid have deepened my connection to the Methow Valley in ways I never imagined. From scanning the horizon for smoke in summer to keeping horse troughs from freezing in deep winter, these experiences have taught me resilience, patience, and a profound respect for this beautiful and rugged landscape. Whether it’s watching a lightning storm, seeing balsamroot paint the hillsides golden in spring, or seeing the snow sparkle under a full moon on subzero nights, I’m constantly reminded why I love this place and the rhythm of living close to nature.
Whether you’re here for fire lookout history, trail inspiration, or a glimpse into off-grid living, I hope you find something that sparks your own sense of adventure. Feel free to reach out—I love hearing from readers! I’m also available for guest blogging and freelance writing. You can follow my stories on Facebook and Instagram.
Thanks for reading and happy trails!
