Michelle Orozco

Outfitter (She/Her)

Long story short, my sister was living in Utah during my travels, so I decided to reconnect with her and I landed here. When I arrived, I joined the local climbing gym and gained access to the outdoor community, building a network that later brought me to Zion Guru. As I look back, 5 years ago, I never would have imagined that I would be living in such a beautiful place nor experiencing such grand adventures. Learning the sport of canyoneering (which I had no idea existed) has empowered me mentally and physically. I am blessed to have the opportunity to play with my friends in backcountry environments and explore slot canyons that most people don’t know existed or may never get to experience in their lifetime. When I’m not working or canyoneering, I’m climbing, taking a yoga class or going car camping with friends.

Helping others experience the outdoors and create memories that impact their lives brings me joy and it reminds me of how far I’ve come from the first time I stepped into Zion National Park.

I was born in Quito, Ecuador but moved to Delaware, OH when I was 3. My sister and I were raised by my single mother and my grandparents. As a child, I wasn’t exposed to many outdoor activities and spent a lot of time indoors. I really loved anything to do with art and creating. I attempted soccer, track, cheerleading, and gymnastics but hated them all.

As I grew older, the culture in Ohio didn’t foster a love for the outdoors, therefore, I immersed myself in working and the nightlife. I have a lot of love for Ohio but with nothing else to do, my life began to become unhealthy and I needed a change. During this time I also started to learn more about traveling, climbing and hiking and decided to embark on a road trip that took me and my best friend through Colorado, Utah, California, Oregon and Washington. This trip made me realize how much I needed to step away from the life I've known and create a new one.

Meet our Staff

Michelle Orozco