Sarah Nelson

Sarah Nelson

Title: Writer & Gear Tester

Location: Reno, NV

Expertise & Background

  • Topics of Expertise: Climbing, trail running, backpacking, hiking, camping, downhill skiing
  • Education: Bachelor of Science in Journalism, Northwestern University
  • Years of Writing: 8+
  • Years of Gear Testing: 6+
  • Certifications: Wilderness First Responder, CPR, AIARE Level 1
  • Club or Association Memberships: Access Fund, American Alpine Club
  • Previous Publications: Backpacker Magazine


Why I Chose This Career

As a writer and editor for Switchback Travel, I’ve been able to merge my journalism background with my love for the outdoors—a perfect convergence of my expertise and personal passions.


How I Began My Career

My first professional writing experience was with Backpacker Magazine in 2016, where I interned during a semester in college. During my time there, I fell in love with the Rocky Mountains and committed to pursuing a career in the outdoor industry.

Recent Articles

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2024 The North Face Gift Guide: Editors’ Picks

Last Updated: November 8, 2024

The North Face is one of our go-to outdoor brands for winter and ski apparel, with an extensive lineup of cold weather-ready clothing, footwear, and accessories that often score high on value and style. With the holidays on the horizon, we scoured...

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Day Hiking Checklist

Last Updated: July 7, 2025

A day hike can be as simple as walking a well-maintained trail near your home or as complex as a dawn-to-dusk journey through a remote wilderness area. The items you bring may vary depending on the difficulty and length of the hike, but no matter how...

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Best Women’s Baselayers of 2025

Last Updated: April 18, 2025

Your baselayer may not be the most exciting part of your layering system, but make no mistake: It’s certainly one of the most important. As your next-to-skin article of clothing, baselayers are tasked with the all-important duties of pulling moisture...

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Columbia Memorial Day Sale: 2025 Gear Guide

Last Updated: May 20, 2025

Summer is right on the horizon, and Columbia’s Memorial Day Sale—which runs through Monday, May 26 (Memorial Day)—is an excellent time to save on quality outdoor apparel. From airy hiking shirts to rain jackets, trail-ready footwear, and lightweight...