Katie Mylott | Denver, CO

Katie Mylott is a high school student from Denver, Colorado.

Why does wilderness matter to you?

Wilderness and outdoor recreation matters to me because as a young person, I want my future to involve less screens, and more trees. I grew up in the mountains and I cannot imagine a world without them.

Why does wilderness matter to your community?

Wilderness has given me some of the best friends of my life. Camping and hiking with friends strengthens our bonds further than school or simple hangouts can.

Share a story about a special experience you have had in wilderness.

I went on a great backpacking trip in the Wind River Mountain Range in Wyoming. This trip changed my whole philosophy regarding mortality and nihilism. I learned to live in the moment through the reflection and work I did on the trip.

What are your hopes for the future of wilderness and wild places?

I hope that access to the Wilderness can improve because I believe that if access and appreciation improve, the health of the planet will benefit as well.