Wilderness Trip Coordinator
rangers@biparks.org

Education: Bachelor of Arts in Economics, Whitman College 2009

Certifications: Wilderness First Responder since 2007, Adult & Child CPR & Airway Management

Interests: Hiking, Backpacking, Snowshoeing, Kayaking, Rock Climbing, Mountaineering

Ranger Sciacca grew up on Bainbridge Island, and has been exploring the Olympics and Cascades almost all of his life. At the age of 6 he became a Junior Ranger, and liked it so much that he changed his name to Ranger. He loves really big trees—he frequently pages through his favorite book “Champion Trees of Washington State”, and make trips to visit state champions. When not in the wilderness, he stays busy managing and performing with his Gypsy Jazz band, Ranger and the “Re-Arrangers”.

What is your favorite part of your job?

When I get to take people on their first hiking trips in Washington! It’s so exciting to share our beautiful area with them, and to see it through their eyes. I also love it when people who came on their first-ever backpacking trip with us return as confident and experienced backpackers.

Where is your happy place?

The rainforest, especially when it’s raining!

Describe one of the most memorable experiences from your program:

On our first Cross-Olympic Teen Backpack, we had a LOOONG day of backpacking through the Quinault Rainforest, and of course it poured! We got into camp soaking wet, and found this huge old gnarled maple tree—underneath, we could hear the rain pounding on the leaves above us, but it was bone-dry! We stayed up late, hanging out around the fire and drying off.

How long have you been doing what you do?

I led my first backpacking trip for Whitman College in 2007, and my first hiking trip for B.I. Parks in 2010—before there was even an Outdoor Program!

What one thing would be impossible for you to give up?

Gummy candy—it’s the only way I ever get up the big hills on backpacking trips : )