My name is Garrett Koepke. I call the northeast region of the United States my home right now. I grew up in Missoula, MT, a place full of character and surrounded by mountains and rivers. Two wilderness areas within a 30 minute drive, three rivers that run through the city, and world-class local food and beer make this town an outdoor adventurers paradise! Growing up here with four siblings and two camping-happy parents taught me a love for the outdoors that has only grown since childhood.

I decided to chase after a career in the outdoor industry in 2010. I graduated from the University of Montana, Missoula, in 2014 with a double Bachelors of Science in Parks, Tourism, and Recreation Management, and Resource Conservation, as well as a minor in Non-profit Administration. During my college years I was able to get experience from a number of outdoor jobs all over the northwest with organizations such as the Montana Wilderness Association, the Arthur Carhart National Wilderness Training Center, Helena City Parks and Rec., Oregon State Parks, and the YMCA.

Since graduating I have been fortunate enough to live and travel internationally but have returned to residence in Gig Harbor, WA, where I am currently working at YMCA Camp Seymour as a Camp Naturalist. Here I teach natural sciences and outdoor skills to 5th and 6th graders. I am challenged and inspired daily by my job!

My passions in life are Jesus, people and the outdoors. The intersection of these is where I want to devote my time and energy. Ultimately, it’s my faith that both keeps me grounded and gives me inspiration. I believe Jesus is the source of our passions and dreams and He doesn’t ask us to sit idly by and just think about them; He calls us to chase after them, leaving our comfort zone behind to enter into a whole world of adventure.

Why I’m on Couchsurfing

Sometimes I go traveling abroad or do some road trips in the U.S. I prefer to stay with and meet people who live in the area I'm traveling to rather than isolate myself into my own experience (aka - stay in a hotel), because I see it as an opportunity to learn and bless others. At the end of the day, I travel to learn and explore. Couch surfing lines up with that pretty well!

Countries I’ve Visited

Canada, England, France, Ireland, Norway, Scotland, South Africa, United Arab Emirates, Zimbabwe

Countries I’ve Lived In

United Kingdom, United States