20 years of Outdoor Recreation Experience
I founded Northern Sun Tours out of pure passion for recreation in wild landscapes. Over the past 20 years I have worked as a backcountry guide, park ranger, ski instructor, mountaineering instructor, first responder and high school teacher. My passion stems from a desire to provide sound and safe instruction and education in the backcountry so others can achieve their goals in outdoor pursuits.
My adventures and professional experience have taken me all over the western United States where I worked for: Devils Postpile, Yosemite, Katmai, Denali and North Cascades National Parks. My extensive federal experience and expertise on wild land conservation history will provide clients with exclusive insight to some of our most cherished landscapes and public lands. If you seek customized experiences that take you off the beaten path with the insight of a local, then I am excited to work with you!
We specialize in customized programing for both public and private groups. We develop both youth and adult educational programs and tours. Our tours and programs always include both fun engaging activities and learning opportunities to build skills and understanding of the natural world we travel through. Our curriculum and advenmture camps are approved by Alaska State school districts for credits towards high school graduation. Please contact us for customized camps for your youth or adult program.
I welcome the chance to work with you on your goals in the great outdoors! Let's go!
Emily Lester, Founder and Head Guide
Commitment to Inclusivity
We are excited to partner with a wide range of people and organizations to create spaces where every person feels seen and welcome. We take steps everyday to ensure our practices are inclusive, and to encourage public conversations about the historical inequities in the outdoor recreation industry. We strive to provide opportunities of adventure and education to every person who wishes to get outside and experience wild landscapes. We value equity and work to create trip itineraries that meet your or your organization’s needs and interests.
As a new company, we’re just beginning to build partnerships with other businesses and organizations who work to create a more inclusive, aware, and equitable outdoor industry. If this is you and you’d like to discuss how we might support your work in Alaska, please get in touch today!