Jake Hutchinson

About me

Water makes me happy, from powder face shots to getting plowed by big waves, it doesn't matter, I'm in my happy place.

The Best Part of My Job

So many things, but in the end, nothing makes me happier than seeing people exposed to these canyons and rivers for the first time. Watching their faces go from nervousness and trepidation to wonder and awe.

How I found OARS

A series of happy accidents led me straight into the lion's den and a year-round life in the outdoors.

My Favorite Spot on the River/Outdoors

I have a soft spot for the San Rafael Swell in Utah. I've been exploring it, climbing, canyoneering, running the river, etc since I was a young boy, and I still find new things, new places, new wonders. It's where you can find me when you can't find me.

My Favorite Trip Memory

Running the Dolores at high water a few years ago with a dear friend and my dogs. The canyons are so amazing, and the opportunity to see a river that never runs at high water is unforgettable. To witness how the desert reclaims itself when human impacts are eliminated or minimized was so powerful.

My Lucky Charm

I have a rubber ducky that looks like Toothless the Dragon. I call him Bam Bam. It's a nod to my Belgian Malinois Colt who we called Toothless as a puppy. He's so intimidating, but really just wants to lean on you and get his head scratched.

I Can’t Live Without

Coffee. Need I say more?

My Fun Fact

I train working dogs professionally in my spare time, from military and police dogs to search and rescue. Nothing better in this world than a solid four-legged companion or two.