About Skagit Guided Adventures
Meet Your Naturalist Guide
Growing up in Mexico City, Stephanie discovered a passion for nature that eventually led her to earn degrees in Marine Biology and Marine Sciences. Since 1989, she has guided wildlife, hiking, kayaking, and eco tours throughout North America, sharing her love of the outdoors with thousands of guests.
Today, Skagit Valley, the North Cascades, and the San Juan Islands are her classroom. Whether you’re searching for migrating snow geese, hiking through old-growth forests, or discovering hidden coastal treasures, Stephanie’s enthusiasm and knowledge make every adventure engaging, educational, and fun.
Sharing Nature Through Meaningful Experiences
Skagit Guided Adventures was founded with a simple goal: help visitors slow down, experience nature, and leave with a deeper appreciation for Northwest Washington.
Our tours go beyond sightseeing. You’ll learn about local wildlife, native plants, geology, conservation, and the fascinating history that has shaped this remarkable region. Every outing is designed to create genuine connections with nature while respecting and protecting the places we explore.
Small Groups. Personal Experiences.
Unlike large commercial tours, every adventure is intentionally kept small and relaxed.
Whether you’re an experienced birder, an avid photographer, or simply looking for a memorable day outdoors, you’ll enjoy a personalized experience led by someone who truly knows these landscapes.
Highlights
- Small group adventures
- Professional naturalist guide
- 30+ years of guiding experience
- Birding, wildlife, and hiking expertise
- Educational and engaging tours
- Family-friendly experiences
Decades of Experience You Can Trust
Stephanie has safely guided thousands of guests across diverse ecosystems throughout North America. Her extensive background in marine biology, wilderness safety, and environmental education provides a level of knowledge rarely found on traditional sightseeing tours.
Education
- Bachelor’s Degree in Marine Biology
- Master’s Degree in Marine Sciences
Certifications
- Wilderness First Aid
- CPR & First Aid
- ACA Kayak Instructor
- USCG 100 Ton Captain
- Open Water Scuba Diver
- CERT (Community Emergency Response Team)
Inspiring Conservation Through Exploration
Protecting the places we visit is part of every tour.
Skagit Guided Adventures partners with local organizations and researchers whenever possible while encouraging responsible recreation, Leave No Trace principles, and appreciation for the wildlife and habitats that make Northwest Washington so special.
In the Media
Skagit Guided Adventures has been featured in:
Seattle Times/Outdoors, March 27, 2026 – When, where and how to see the Skagit Valley tulips this spring.
Skagitonians to Preserve Farmland, January 26, 2026 – Bird Wise Observations: Nature and Birding Guide Stephanie Fernandez
Seattle Times April 2025 – https://www.seattletimes.com/life/outdoors/skagit-valley-tulip-festival-2025-your-guide-to-was-tulip-blooms/
Cascadia Daily News, Nov 1,2024 – Skagit Valley winter birding guide: What to see and where to go
Experience Anacortes city website, May, 29 2024 – https://www.anacortes.org/2024/05/29/see-a-national-park-from-wherever-you-stand/
Skagitonians to Preserve Farmland, April 3, 2023 – The Dirt – “Accidental Birders” learn how to Be Bird Wise
Seattle Times, March 29, 2023 – How to go birding by boat in Western Washington, Bryony Angell
Visit Skagit Valley, January 6, 2022 – Magic Skagit Valley
The Epoch Times, April 5, 2021 – Migratory Birds Bring Opportunity, Environmental Concerns to Washingtonians
NTD News, March 22, 2021 – Washington Flock Flies Off
Skagit Valley Herald, March 14, 2021 – Birds subject of online event
KNKX Birdnote, March 11, 2021, Zoom presentation – Birds of the Skagit Valley
Bellingham Alive July-August 2020, p45 https://issuu.com/klmedia/docs/2007-8_ba_digital
Weekends in Washington, July 2020 – Skagit Valley Snow Geese Tour
1889, Washington Magazine , April 2020 – Cypress Island Cruise n’ Hike Adventure,
PCBE (Plains Communities Business Exchange), March 2020 – Skagit Valley Tulip Tour
Skagit Valley Herald/GoSkagit.com Local Travel Briefs, July 2019 – Outdoor and Senior Tours around Skagit