Tyler Vallas is a San Diego native who fled the chaparral environment of Southern California and made his way north to the University of Washington, where he studies aerospace engineering and chemistry. Despite expectations, Tyler is not particularly fond of the beach and will actively choose mountains over sand every time. Growing up camping, hiking, and skiing, Tyler has picked up backpacking since coming to Washington, fueled by Clif Bloks energy chews and an “up and around the bend” mindset. When not thinking about school, he can be found reminiscing about Southern California roller coasters, rewatching The Hunger Games, or roaming around Google Earth in search of the next adventure. Feel free to talk to him about amusement parks or ask about why snow is vastly superior to sand.