Our Story

Raphael: Founder of YuSquatch Mountain Adventures

Raphael’s adventure began in the rugged terrain of the Rocky Mountains, where his love for the outdoors was born. From a young age, he spent countless hours hiking, climbing, and immersing himself in the wild beauty of the Rockies. It was here that he developed a deep connection to nature and a passion for exploring its most remote corners. Over the years, Raphael honed his skills in mountaineering, guiding, skiing, climbing, and survival, turning what started as a personal passion into a lifelong journey.

After years of exploring the Rockies, Raphael’s travels led him further north — to the untamed wilderness of the Yukon. It was in this vast, majestic landscape that he knew he had found his true calling. The towering peaks, endless forests, and pristine rivers of the North captured his heart, and he couldn’t wait to share it with others. Driven by his love for the wilderness and his desire to help others experience its magic, Raphael decided to make the Yukon his home and founded YuSquatch Mountain Adventures. His goal was simple: to offer epic hikes, challenging climbs, and wild expeditions that would give adventurers a true taste of the raw, untouched beauty of the North.

For Raphael, every journey is about more than just conquering a peak or crossing a trail. It’s about personal growth, forging deep connections, and experiencing the profound freedom that comes with being immersed in nature. Whether it’s scaling remote mountains, trekking through ancient forests, or pack rafting across crystal-clear rivers, Raphael’s mission is to guide adventurers on transformative experiences they’ll never forget.

Today, Raphael continues to lead groups into the heart of the Yukon, sharing his knowledge, passion, and respect for the land. His goal is to inspire others to step into the wild, push their limits, and experience the adventure of a lifetime in one of the world’s most beautiful and untamed landscapes.

Raphael Metivier (ACMG Hiking Guide)

Before becoming a guide, Raph’s life was very different. Born on the East Coast, he joined the military right after high school and served for six years. But when he first saw the mountains, something clicked. The beauty, the community, and the physical challenges drew him in.

It was at that moment Raph decided to leave the military and pursue his passion for the outdoors. He began taking courses and training to become a certified mountain guide.

Traveling, climbing, hiking, and skiing are what truly light a fire under Raph. He’s always seeking new adventures and pushing his limits. His travels have taken him through South and Central America, Northern Canada, and Alaska, where he’s explored some of the world’s most remote places.

Now, on his way to becoming a full-fledged mountain guide, Raph is focused on sharing his love for the mountains and his growing knowledge of backcountry wilderness with guests through Yusquatch Mountain Adventures. His goal is simple: to help others experience the adventure of a lifetime in the wild beauty of the North.