Meet Kayla Hoogenraad, our dynamic General Manager who keeps Ridge Wilderness running smoothly. Kayla manages everything from staff coordination and scheduling to client bookings and custom programming. She also oversees accounts and invoicing, ensuring every detail is handled with care and precision.

Kayla joined Ridge Wilderness 6 years ago, bringing with her a wealth of experience from managing a bustling restaurant for nearly 8 years. After a few years dedicated to her family, she returned to the workforce with a passion for outdoor adventures and a knack for organization.

Kayla thrives in environments where she can juggle multiple responsibilities and keep everything on track. Her extensive experience in customer service and administrative tasks makes her an invaluable asset to our team. Though she modestly claims no industry-specific accolades, her expertise and dedication speak volumes.

Outside of work, Kayla enjoys savoring moments of tranquility with a vanilla latte and a thrilling novel. She loves exploring new places on road trips around BC with her husband and four kids, and she never misses a chance to relax in tropical destinations.

Inspired by the challenges life presents, Kayla believes overcoming them makes life meaningful. Her motivation comes from the positive feedback of youth and teachers who find peace and joy in nature through our programs. Kayla is committed to delivering exceptional experiences for all our clients and is always ready to create custom programs to meet unique needs.

Kayla’s favorite quote: “Challenges are what make life interesting; overcoming them is what makes life meaningful.”

I am Rachel Campbell, and I call the beautiful Chilliwack, BC home. For over a decade, I’ve dedicated myself to education, specializing in Special Education, Outdoor Education and First Aid. For the past seven years, I’ve been a proud member of Chilliwack Search and Rescue, training in swift water rescue, rope rescue, helicopter rescue, first aid, and risk management.

Professional Experience:

Educator
 First Aid Instructor
 Special Education and Outdoor Education.

Chilliwack Search and Rescue
o Swift Water Rescue
o Rope Rescue
o Helicopter Rescue
o Licensed Emergency Medical Responder

Personal Passions
 Cold Water Swimming
 Canoeing
 Backcountry Adventures
 Wilderness Survival Skills

One of my greatest joys is taking others into the wilderness to share the magic of nature. Working with Ridge Wilderness has been a dream come true, allowing me to combine my love for teaching, guiding, and adventuring. Every day, I get to be outside, doing what I love and sharing my passion with others. So, let’s go on an adventure together and learn some knew skills!

I am originally from a teeny-tiny town called Kingston in New Brunswick. I moved to Alberta in 2013. Growing up a quick drive away from the Atlantic Ocean I’ve always been drawn to the water. 

I started my time with Ridge Wilderness just over a year ago! Over the summer you’ll find me working at Elk Island full time; come fall I will be taking prerequisite med classes to pursue my dream of becoming a midwife! 

In my personal time, you’ll either find me cozied up with a book or on many adventures with my friends! Whether that be kayaking, escape rooms, or even road trips to the mountains. I’ve always been one for a good adventure!

Jamie Tempel, assistant to all. She started her journey with Ridge Wilderness in 2021 to align her professional life with her passion for adventure and the outdoors. Jamie was born and raised in the West Chilcotin community of Nimpo Lake, BC where nature was ingrained into her foundation and roots. Growing up in the tourism industry and always having customer service at the forefront of her endeavors, she prides herself on every client interaction being one of value, intention and connection. In her spare time she will be found with her family, hiking any mountain she possibly can, wandering through the woods aimlessly or by an open fire cooking up new tasty creations. As a self proclaimed nature geek, Jamie believes in inspiring others, especially youth, to form their connection with the outdoors and is grateful to be a part of a team that allows her the platform to do so! “Going to the mountains, is going home” – John Muir

I was born and raised in Chilliwack. I attended Columbia Bible College and completed their Emergency Rescue Technician course which trained me in all things outdoors. I love to spend my time hiking with family and friends hiking in new interesting areas. During the winter you’ll find me out skiing or snowboarding in fresh powder. My favourite part of guiding is being able to meet new people and to learn about others while being able to explore the outdoors.

I live in Abbotsford.  I am a retired professional firefighter, having served 29 years.  My hobbies are outdoor adventure by bicycle, backpack or boat, as well as physical fitness.  I run a small mobile strength training business other than my work with Ridge.  I love guiding and teaching first aid with Ridge because it combines all my passions together and I love meeting new people.