Ryan was born and raised in Southern Maine, spending his childhood in the coastal town of York. His love for the outdoors took root during frequent trips to the Rangeley Lakes Region, where his father and grandfather introduced him to fishing, camping, hiking, skiing, and snowmobiling. It was these experiences that cemented Ryan’s deep connection to nature. Although a casual hiker in his early years, a life-changing winter camping and skiing trip to Tuckerman Ravine with his Uncle Ralph at age 17 sparked a passion for the mountains that would shape his future adventures.
After graduating from college in 2007, Ryan set out to achieve a long-held dream: a thru-hike of the Appalachian Trail. Unlike most hikers, he chose the more challenging Southbound route, starting in Maine and heading toward Georgia. With only about 1 in 10 hikers succeeding in this direction, Ryan’s determination pushed him through rugged terrain, springtime mud, high rivers, and relentless black flies. Completing the Appalachian Trail remains one of his proudest accomplishments.
Following the hike, Ryan struggled with the idea of returning to “normal life.” Fortunately, he found a way to continue living in the mountains by working with the Appalachian Mountain Club. Over several years, Ryan took on seasonal roles as a backcountry caretaker, hiking guide, and trail maintenance leader in the White Mountains. During this time, he also became one of the few people to summit all 48 of New Hampshire’s 4,000-foot mountains in a single winter solstice.
In 2014, life called Ryan in a new direction when he met his wife, Josie, and the two decided to start a family. Ryan transitioned to a full-time role at Red Door Title, a company founded by his mother in 2012, where he now serves as co-owner. He and Josie live in Farmington, Maine, with their three children, ages 5, 7, and 9. While balancing fatherhood and running a business, Ryan continues to pursue his passion for the mountains, regularly embarking on backcountry skiing trips throughout Maine and New Hampshire. In 2018, he climbed and skied the Chimney Couloir on Mount Katahdin, a highlight of his mountaineering pursuits.
Beyond his outdoor adventures, Ryan is committed to making a positive impact in his community. He serves on the Hope Fund Committee with the Tri-Valley United Way, helping underprivileged youth access opportunities that might otherwise be out of reach. Now, Ryan is preparing for a new challenge—an unsupported winter trek through Maine’s 100-mile wilderness with his friends Adam and Evan. The group aims to raise $10,000 for the Hope Fund, combining their love of adventure with their commitment to helping youth in need.
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