“Tall” Ashley Leedberg

Job Title

Professional River Guide

Pronouns

She/Her/Hers

Destinations

Utah

With OARS Since

2026

Hometown

Saco, ME

Current Location

Vernal, UT

Offseason Gig

Snowmaker

About me

In 2018, I began guiding sea kayak tours on the coast of Maine, progressing to our most remote rivers via SUP and canoe, and eventually moving into white water rafting. I love floating on water, over rocks, and fish, and ecosystems more complex than I can imagine. When the season turns to winter, I tend to find myself turning water into a product that people can ski/snowboard on.

The Best Part of My Job

Oh gosh. There's so much to love. Being outdoors like 24/7, playing on water, meeting cool people - coworkers and guests.

How I found OARS

I've been a Maine guide for some time now, and after making my way West, I wanted to find a company that I could progress my professional guiding skills with.

My Favorite Spot on the River/Outdoors

There's this campsite on the St Croix River in Maine. After a day or two of paddling down river, this camp is found on river right with a beautiful view of a meadow across the river on the Canadian side. Moose, geese, and deer are often seen here. And just down river from camp is a large amount of slackwater, so clear you can see the fish and grass swaying in the soft current, making for an incredible sunrise paddle spot

My Favorite Trip Memory

I think my general favorite feeling is when I witness people get the itch to see and do more outside

Favorite River Tradition

I dont have one, but now I feel like I should!

I Can’t Live Without

My Aeropress.

My Fun Fact

I love arts and crafts - sewing, drawing, jewelry, and basket making. I built out a school bus during the summer of '22 and lived in it for 3 years.

Meet me on these adventures

Landscape view of the Yampa River in Utah.

Yampa River Rafting

4 or 5 Days 4.92 (62)

Location: Colorado & Utah
Adventure Level: Moderately Challenging
Minimum Age: 7 (10 - 12 during high water)

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