Smithsonian Journeys Experts

Growing up in the Salt Lake Valley, David Alder learned to appreciate the surrounding mountains and nearby desert at a young age. He studied zoology at Weber State University—where a lot of classes were conducted outside—and had a job in the food industry when he was called to do some work on family property in West Yellowstone, a place he had visited throughout his childhood. With an affinity for West Yellowstone and his sights set on being a guide, David decided to stay.  

Since then, he has guided trips in the American West as well as to Peru and Guatemala, where he led two student groups studying botany and teaching medicinal techniques to locals. Whether it’s hiking, biking, kayaking, and wildlife viewing in summer, or skiing or driving snow coaches in winter, he enjoys sharing time spent in the great outdoors and his knowledge about the wonderful area that he calls home. David feels lucky to be living the dream his father always had – living and working in West Yellowstone at the edge of Yellowstone National Park!