Katy Stevens

Where did you grow up?

In Angels Camp, California – I lived at OARS until I was seven years old.

Where do you call home now?

Murphys, California

Year started at OARS?

2016

What’s the best part of your job?

The OARS family. We are all here because this is something we are passionate about; there’s a palpable sense of community and familiarity with all of your co-workers from the moment you meet.

Tell us about your favorite rapid, hike or camp and what makes it special

The (river) right side of Meral’s Pool, on the Tuolumne is where I camped under the stars with my daughter for the first time. I got to snuggle her up in the sleeping bag with me, and we fell asleep with Rock Garden rapid thrumming a lullaby in the background.

Do you have a lucky charm or special river tradition?

My special river tradition is not flipping. With as many trips as I have done now I go into every new rapid expecting this to be the one. Statistically it’s meant to be. It makes me extra attentive.

What can you not live without on a trip?

Hot coffee and cotton everything – there is nothing better than pulling on dry non-synthetic clothes at the end of the day – it never fails to make me feel pampered.

Fun fact, special talent or favorite guiding memory

The first time I got to row a raft in the Grand Canyon I was eleven years old, my dad gave me the oars  and he coached me through some little unnamed riffle. I can still clearly remember the sense of accomplishment and belonging that I felt being in that place with him, and guiding the raft he lived on for half of the year down the current.