Justin, born in Wichita, Kansas, spent his formative years deeply ingrained in nature, a love imbued by his parents. Childhood vacations to Colorado's Rocky Mountains sparked his fascination for nature's grandeur, and his family's animal rehabilitation work further fueled his passion for wildlife.

Earning a bachelor’s degree in biology with an emphasis on ecology from Sterling College of Kansas, Justin published a thesis on behavioral patterns of black-tailed prairie dogs. Post-graduation, he pursued a master's degree in marine science at Halmos College of Natural Sciences and Oceanography in Florida.

During his undergraduate years, summer jobs at a camp near Yosemite National Park led him to fall in love with the Sierra Nevada. He seized every opportunity to hike and camp in these majestic mountains. After graduation, Justin joined a local guiding company as a photography and backcountry leader in Yosemite. A Nat Hab Expedition Leader since 2023, Justin specializes in film photography, ecology, and all things Yosemite and Sierra Nevada.

Outside of guiding, Justin enjoys backpacking, camping, fly fishing and road tripping. He is also working on converting a van into a tiny home. His travel experiences include five countries (Haiti, the Bahamas, Israel, Panama, and Albania), over thirty states and sixteen national parks. Justin lives in Oakhurst, California, a mere 15 miles from Yosemite.

Praise from Nat Hab Travelers: 

H. Weinshank
Justin was  extremely knowledgeable and his enthusiasm was contagious! I never knew I would be so interested in geology and granite, haha. It's easy to see that Justin’s love for Yosemite runs deep, and he was committed to showing us all of the beauty it has to offer.

M. Silva
Justin is a superb guide: knowledgeable, friendly, great personality. He seems to be a natural leader and was able to adjust the schedule due to weather easily and calmly. I knew we were in excellent hands with Justin!

M. Mann
Justin is so knowledgeable about Yosemite and very passionate. He even took us to some of his favorite sites—places that we'd never know to go to on our own!