Megan Ochalek
Originally from flatland Wisconsin, Megan fell in love with Yosemite Valley and the Sierras when she moved to California for grad school. While pursuing her PhD in Aerospace Engineering, she filled every spare moment being outside with friends on long trail runs, climbing in the Valley, and on bigger mountaineering trips. During this period, she discovered a passion for helping others grow their connection to the mountains, which led her to organize trips and events with her university’s alpine club, including a trail running festival and programming to make the space more welcoming to women. When she’s not spending time outside, Megan is usually making art, cooking for friends, or scheming up another trip.
Climbing Resumé
- Mt. Rainier, Washington (14,410') | via Disappointment Cleaver
- Mt. Baker, Washington (10,786') | via Easton Glacier
- Mt. Adams, Washington (12,281') | ski descent via South Climb
- Mt. Shasta, California (14,161’) | via Avalanche Gulch
- Ski traverse of Wapta Icefield, Canada
- Rock climbing throughout the Sierra Nevada
Certifications
- Wilderness First Responder
- AIARE Avalanche Level I
- AIARE Avalanche Rescue
