Whether it is competing in local mountain bike races or summiting new peaks alongside her dog, Opa, Meghan LaHatte is outside more often than not. As a contributor to GearJunkie, she tests camping gear, winter apparel, dog accessories, and more — ensuring only the most reliable and high-performing products make the cut.
In addition to writing and photography, Meghan works full-time as a content strategist for her alma mater, Western Colorado University. When she’s not behind a screen, you’ll find her exploring the trails and crags of Gunnison–Crested Butte, Colo., making the most of the area’s world-class outdoor playground.
Before joining the GearJunkie team as a contributor, Meghan earned a B.A. in Communication Arts and a B.F.A. in Studio Photography from Western Colorado University. During her time at Western, she worked as a climbing instructor and marketing professional with Wilderness Pursuits, while also serving as the head marketing photographer for Momentum Ski Camps. She expanded her expertise through affiliate content creation, a sales and marketing role at Redline Gallery, and as captain of Western’s flagship collegiate climbing team.
Meghan’s passion for recreation goes all the way back to her childhood spent on Clark’s Hill Lake in South Carolina where she spent summer days water skiing, wakeboarding, and exploring the surrounding wilderness with her family. Her infatuation with the outdoors led her to Colorado for college, where she became a tenacious climber, roller skater, mountain biker, and skier.
After graduating, Meghan worked on the production team at the Aspen Daily News before transitioning into a full-time role as a digital content strategist for Western Colorado University’s School of Graduate Studies. As a contributor for GearJunkie, she focuses on providing accurate, inclusive reviews of women’s-specific clothing and gear. Through her work, she hopes to encourage more people to get outside and discover what they’re capable of—regardless of experience level.
Career Highlights
Competed on Western Colorado University’s collegiate climbing team, where she was the team captain for 3 years
Placed 2nd overall for women at the 2020 USA Collegiate Sport Climbing Competition at the Air Force Academy
Interned with and led the marketing photography squad at Momentum Ski Camps, Canada’s premier freestyle skiing camp, for two summers in 2018 and 2019
Worked as a climbing instructor for Wilderness Pursuits, Western Colorado University’s student-led outdoor guiding service
Photographed prominent freestyle skiing events such as X Games and Dew Tour
Completed her 2019 senior thesis, Vulnerable Exposure, a photography exhibit in which she printed images of climbers onto sandstone in the darkroom
Won 1st Place in the 2023 Class 1 Colorado Press Association Network Better News Contest for Page Design
A Word From Meghan LaHatte
First and foremost, I am a lover of storytelling. Ever since I can remember, I have gravitated towards reading and witnessing captivating stories, especially related to the outdoors and nature. For this reason and others, I belong in the journalism industry whether it be as a writer, photographer, or graphic designer.
Every aspect of the outdoors has an impactful story to tell. From the expansive crags of Indian Creek to the rugged mountains of Crested Butte, I have witnessed some truly powerful narratives of wonderful people and moments in the natural world. Those moments inspire me to pursue a lifelong career in this industry. I am thankful for the mentors, peers, and coaches who have helped me achieve this dream.
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