Wyoming Modern Explorers

Winter in Cody Wyoming
Modern Explorers

Modern Explorers

What They’re Made Of.

Wyoming is home to the bold, and the quietly courageous. The dreamers and the outlaws. They push themselves forward. And discover new paths. Because you don’t go west to compromise. Or make yourself more comfortable. In Wyoming, there’s more than enough room to take that chance. And that’s just what these Modern Explorers have done. Maybe it’s time for you to do the same.

Aaron Mulkey, Modern Explorer

Aaron Mulkey

Ice Climber & Founder of The Wyoming Ice Festival

“When I’m outside, I feel much more connected to myself,” says Aaron Mulkey. “Especially ice climbing. It takes 100% of your focus. When you’re out there, you’re not thinking did I send that email?” It’s the kind of focus that has inspired his quest to conquer 300 first ascents. But it’s also the type of mindset that he believes just about anyone in need of a little balance can benefit from.

Elyse Guarino, Modern Explorer

Elyse Guarino

Rafting Guide & Educator

While pursuing a big-city, corporate career, Elyse Guarino knew she needed a change. And after her first packrafting trip in the West, she knew her life would never be the same. On Wyoming’s wild waters, the co-founder of Wyoming Rivers Co-op found a perspective she couldn’t wait to share with others. Learn why she believes a white-water run is never just a wild ride but a chance to connect with communities—and the world—all around you.

Arvid Aase, Modern Explorer

Arvid Aase

Paleontologist & Museum Curator

When Arvid Aase looks out across the landscape of southwestern Wyoming, he sees beyond the fragrant flora and vivid red ridges deep into the state’s prehistoric past. The Fossil Butte National Monument ranger and museum curator believes it’s the thrill of discovery that keeps curiosity alive in future generations. Which is why he works to create that experience for as many new explorers as possible.

Modern Explorers

Jess Oldham

WILDLIFE RESCUER & RANCHER

What’s wild isn’t without vulnerability. So when Wyoming’s wild horses need refuge, Jess Oldham and his family work to ensure they have more than enough room to run at the Wind River Wild Horse Sanctuary. Learn how this ranching family founded a safe space for one of the most iconic symbols of the American West.

Taylor Thoman, Modern Explorer

Taylor Thoman

FIFTH GENERATION RANCHER

When your grandmother is a Wyoming Cowboy Hall of Fame cowgirl, you’re born with your boots on and ready to ride. Discover how 12-year-old Taylor Thoman, a formidable firebrand in her own right, continues to buck expectation as she takes up the family business. Because there are some traditions that can’t be broken.

Tim Trites, Modern Explorer

Tim Trites

ZERO-WASTE DISTILLER

You don’t start a zero-waste distillery because it seems easy. You build it because you want it to last. Learn how Tim Trites, owner and master distiller at Pinedale’s Cowboy Country distilling, struck out from the corporate world to honor his craft in the best way he knows how. Whisky distilling and cattle ranching might be more intertwined than you think.

Do you know a Wyoming Modern Explorer?

They push their limits. They go a little further. And they always want to know what’s on the other side.

Tag them and tell us how they’re a Modern Explorer using #WYModernExplorer.