Off Beat Interview Series with Katy
Riverbeat Questions
Tell us a little about yourself! Where did you grow up?
I grew up in Southern California, a long way from any rivers–I think I knew what rafting was, but whitewater kayaking was something that had never occurred to me as a sport.
How did you find your way to the river?
I started learning to kayak my senior year of college–and was immediately so taken with it that I rearranged my life to be on the river as much as possible. That continues to be a theme.
What is your favorite dress up theme?
Punk vs. Disco, I think.
What is your ‘go to’ crazy hat night creation?
I’m a big fan of the White Claw Wizard—where you take a box of White Claw and turn it into a hat.
What brought you to Canyons?
A friend who had worked for Canyons introduced me. I ended up meeting Greg while skiing and had a chairlift interview. The guide culture and opportunity to work in Idaho were a great fit.
How many years have you worked here?
2025 will be my third year with Canyons.
What is your favorite thing about Canyons?
The willingness to teach and build people up. There’s no gatekeeping—everyone is eager to share knowledge. It’s a great culture.
If you could describe Canyons in 3 words?
Badass, inclusive, FUN
When you hear the word Idaho, what comes to mind?
Rivers. So many beautiful, wild rivers in this state.
What are your top three favorite camps?
- Alder (Main Salmon, lower water camp)
- Johnny Walker (Middle Fork)
- Kamas (Middle Fork)
Your favorite hike?
The overlook hike out of Pine on the Middle Fork. You climb 1,000 feet of switchbacks to an amazing view. The bitterroot flowers there are stunning in the spring.
Top three favorite rapids?
Anything on the Main at high water—it’s a roller coaster! On the Middle Fork, Jack Creek series at high water is great, and Earthquake Rock at low water is super technical and fun.
Currently what is your nemesis rapid?
Probably Devil’s Teeth (Middle Fork) or Little Soldier, where I pinned the sweep boat last year. Lots of learning!
What river do you want to run that you haven’t yet?
So many! But for now: the Ohanepecosh in Washington, the Watauga in Tennessee/North Carolina, and eventually international kayaking in Chile, Iceland, and Norway.
What do you consider a ‘real’ job?
Honestly, parenting. I don’t have kids, but raising and shaping little humans is a huge responsibility. I admire the guides who do both.
If you could only have one kayak in your quiver, what would it be and why?
My Dagger Axiom (size small). It’s my reliable go-to for any water level. A little spicy, but it keeps me honest!
What is your favorite thing to cook on the river?
Dutch oven bakes. They’re fun, impressive, and surprisingly easy.
If you could take a musician or band down the river today, who would it be?
Townes Van Zandt.
What is your most memorable swim in a river?
A mile-plus swim on the Middle Fork at high water or two swims in two miles on the Lochsa. Idaho’s taught me a lot!
What is one of your river rituals or superstitions?
I wear fun leggings, a Hawaiian shirt, and silly sunglasses on Lava Day in the Grand Canyon. It keeps the vibe light and fun!
What is your most valued non-river related item that you bring on every trip?
A quilt my mom made for me when I was a baby.
What is your favorite groover spot?
Rabbit Camp on the Main Salmon—tucked behind the exposed roots of a giant ponderosa. Pretty magical!
Learn more about groovers here
Similar Posts by The Author:
- Off Beat Interview Series with Mike Hipsher
- The Interior Guide: How to Actually Show Up for Yourself this River Trip
- Internal Hydrology: Why You’re More Watershed Than Human
- Off Beat Interview Series with Clark
- Blogs are Reflections from a Salmon River SUP Adventure
