Meet Yellowstone Guide: Heidi
Heidi Anderson is a Breckenridge, Colorado native raised in a close-knit mountain community where adventure is a way of life. She began skiing at just two years old and spent much of her childhood outdoors, often hiking 14ers with her dad, who carried her in a backpack before she could make the trek on her own. These early experiences sparked a lifelong passion for exploration and the outdoors.
That passion has led Heidi to travel to 35 countries, driven by curiosity and a desire to step beyond her comfort zone. She lives by the motto “seek discomfort,” embracing new cultures, foods, and connections wherever she goes.
In high school, Heidi played rugby, an experience that built her resilience, confidence, and strong, team-oriented mindset. Today, when she’s not working as a barista or planning her next adventure, she’s guiding others by bringing energy, authenticity, and a deep love for nature into every experience she leads.
Her bucket list is long, the world is wide, and she’s just getting started.
What's your favorite travel destination?
Vietnam! Incredible - with mix of ocean, rainforest, and busy cities. Food scene is the best I've ever experienced. The most memorable part was doing a 4 day motorcycle trip in Ha Giang, Northern Vietnam.
What's your favorite adventure activity?
Hiking, camping, snowboarding, swimming, backpacking/traveling, dancing and nature exploration.
What has been your most inspiring adventure experience?
My most inspiring travel experience was a trip to South Africa during the off-season, when I booked a hiking excursion that turned into a deeply personal journey. It ended up being just my guide and me trekking 50 kilometers over five days, through both heavy rain and bright, open skies.
Along the way, I formed a meaningful connection with him, learning about the land beneath my feet and his life in quiet, rural villages. I shared meals with locals, faced unexpected moments, including an encounter with wild dogs and experienced the beauty of cows wandering along the beach. I slept in local homes, surrounded by stillness. Out there, in the vast quiet, it was just me and the world and it changed me.
When did you first get the travel bug?
After high school, Heidi took a gap year at 19 and moved to Sevilla, Spain, where she lived for three months. During her time there, she worked as a nurse’s assistant, quickly adapting to a new environment and learning Spanish along the way. She lived with a host mother who welcomed her into her home, shared home-cooked meals, and introduced her to the city’s culture and daily life. During this experience, Heidi formed meaningful friendships and had her first opportunity to fully immerse herself in a new culture, further fueling her passion for travel and connection.
What destination would you most like to travel to (that you haven't been to yet)?
Japan! I want to snowboard, eat good food, experience the culture, and enjoy the vast and beautiful nature. Everything about Japan looks fascinating.
Do you have any favorite hobbies or special talents you could tell us about?
Hobbies including traveling around the world with whatever can fit in a 15kg bag, making a perfect cup of coffee, photography, and have a passion for working with kids!
What is your favorite trip to lead?
Yellowstone Adventure and Yellowstone Family Vacation! The natural beauty of the landscape, the geothermal activity, and the wild life creates a beautiful landscape to experience first hand.
What inspired you to become a trip leader?
I’m passionate about sharing my love of travel with others and turning it into a meaningful career. Travel truly excites me! I love meeting new people and creating and sharing beautiful experiences along the way. Austin Adventures offers an incredible lineup of experiences, and I knew right away it was something I wanted to be a part of.
