Andy Gonzalez is an experienced hiking / adventure guide in Arizona. His backyard backs up to the state's best hiking and backpacking location, the superstition wilderness, which is considered the pinnacle of exploration in the Arizona desert . When it comes to AZ hiking, camping, fishing and all things fun on the lakes and rivers, Andy is definitely the guy you want to have around to enhance the experience.
SHOP THE KIT
When everything goes sideways in your world, what does “comfort in the chaos” actually look like for you?
Heading out to the lake to surf after a long week.
What’s the gnarliest day you’ve ever had in your element, and how did it change the way you operate now?
Backpacking the North Rim of the Grand Canyon and having someone in our group not physically ready for the trip—we had to get them airlifted out. Ever since then: always stay ready.
What do you chase more: the perfect result or the feeling you get getting there—and why?
Nothing beats getting to an amazing destination hike with awesome people.
What’s one non‑negotiable ritual or mindset you rely on before you step into high‑pressure conditions?
Checking gear more than once before leaving, and solid route planning.
What’s a small thing that instantly flips your switch—pet peeve, superstition, or ridiculous habit your crew loves to clown you for?
I hike a ton in Rainbow Sandals and carry an ice chest full of beer and ice on long trips.
Think back to a day on trial when everything went wrong—weather, terrain, group energy. What did you do first to keep people moving forward?
Cracked jokes about the route we took and kept the vibe light, so people didn’t spiral.
Are you more tuned into the map, the sky, or the people you’re leading—and how does that priority keep everyone safe?
The people. Checking in every few miles keeps everyone accounted for and safe.
What’s one moment in the backcountry where you knew your calm was the only thing standing between order and chaos?
Running out of water miles from the trailhead and knowing you just have to stay calm and trust your body to get you out.
How have back‑to‑back long days on your feet changed your view of “comfort,” from footwear to layers to headspace?
If you have doubt in your gear, you’re going to fail. Quality gear is a must.
What’s the funniest or most ridiculous trail moment you’ve had that still gets told around the fire?
On a 16‑mile out‑and‑back waterfall hike in the snow, I slipped and fell fully into a pool—completely submerged over my head. Ended up finishing the hike in my girlfriend’s leggings.
Advocate- Andy Gonzalez
