A tribute to Judson Wright
Today, we say goodbye to a truly remarkable human being, our friend and colleague Judson Wright — a devoted husband to Kelly, loving father to Griffin, dog dad to Phaedo, and a pillar of the Kootenay backcountry community. Judson wasn’t just an ACMG ski guide or a CAA Pro. He was a teacher, a mentor, a leader and a builder of communities.
When he founded his personal business, Kootenay Backcountry Guides, he made it clear that it would be more than just a guiding operation. He used it as a platform to educate — sharing local conditions, safety tips, best practices, and thoughtful reminders on how to plan and travel smartly in the mountains. His YouTube and Instagram videos were more than content; they were acts of care for a community he loved deeply.
Three years ago Judson joined the White Grizzly team and became our Head of Mountain Operations shortly afterwards, and he brought Kootenay Backcountry Guides along with him. It quickly became apparent that he was going to do more than just run the White Grizzly mountain program. He was a transformative presence within our business, elevating all of us around him and continually finding ways to make White Grizzly more fun and safe for both guests and our team. He was foundational in creating the culture that we enjoy today in our small and special operation. Guests that were lucky enough to have Judson guiding their trip always left with a smile on their faces. He created his own and unique vibe that made time spent with him unforgettable.
Judson was also the backbone of State of the Snowpack, helping transform it from a handful of people gathered in a brewery to a movement that now stretches across Canada. His passion made learning accessible, and his leadership empowered other guides to step up, share knowledge, and strengthen their own communities.
If you were lucky enough to ski with him, jam with him, or simply share time in his presence, you know exactly the kind of man he was — humble, genuine, deeply caring, and always ready with advice or an answer to any question. He reminded us that at the end of the day, it’s just skiing or snowboarding… that the bad days make the good ones sweeter… and that connection matters more than conditions.
Judson was one of a kind — a rare soul who led with love and integrity. His impact on our community is immeasurable, and his legacy will continue to guide us. White Grizzly, Kootenay Backcountry Guides and State Of The Snowpack will honor his mission by empowering guides and backcountry users to be like Judson: engaged, generous, fun and committed to helping people have incredible days out there — and come home safely.
He was also the best and most enthusiastic crossing guard you’d ever meet.
He will be deeply, deeply missed. 💙🏔️
Support for Judson’s Family
We are asking our community to come together in support of Kelly and Griffon during this unimaginable time. If you are able, please consider contributing to the GoFundMe created to help Judson’s family with immediate and future needs. Donations can be made here: https://gofund.me/a4b468c65
Personal Support Resources
During this difficult time, please remember to take care of yourself, check in on your friends, and find support:
During this difficult time please remember to take care of yourself, check in on your friends, and find support:
- Canadian Mountain Community CISM Team - 1-604-670-2772 -
This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. - https://www.mountaincism.ca/ - British Columbia Bereavement Helpline - 1-877-779-2223 - https://bcbh.ca/
