Raised in the mountains of northern Idaho, Cheyenne has deep experience across diverse fields—from education to hospitality, operations management, development, and even as manager of Aaron Sterck Racing #285. (Aaron, her husband who was born and raised in Pinedale, has been a professional snowmobile racer since 2006.)
Cheyenne also has deep and diverse experience on the BTNF. She, Aaron, and their three kids hunt, hike, snowmobile, camp, and fish on the forest. She also knows the BTNF from the outfitter side: she was assistant manager at White Pine Ski Resort and, for seven years, general manager of Half Moon Lake Lodge. At the lodge Cheyenne advised guests about the many different adventures they could have on the BTNF and also led horseback rides, pack trips, and hikes.
With a Master’s degree in Mental Health and Wellness and a Bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education, Cheyenne has also taught in public schools, instructed adult learners, and developed curriculum for a range of ages and needs. “I’m particularly motivated by roles where mission, community, and meaningful work intersect,” Cheyenne says. “I’m excited to join Friends of the Bridger-Teton and help the organization grow.”
Easy Water
To purify stream water in the backcountry, Cheyenne swears by her LifeStraw water bottle. “You fill it up from a stream and then drink the water through a straw that has a filter in it,” she explains. “It is phenomenal.” Still though, to be on the safe side, she always carries water purification tablets, too. “Water is important and we want to have a back-up if we need it,” she says.
On her feet
After struggling with every brand of hiking boot and shoe—each one gave her blisters and made her feet hurt—in 2023 Cheyenne tried moccasins. Her first hike in them, her husband Aaron suggested she pack “regular shoes,” too, for when the moccasins became uncomfortable. Cheyenne never needed the regular shoes, though, on that first hike or on any outing since. “I’ve done 20 mile hikes up in the mountains in rocky terrain in moccasins and they’re great for me. I don’t get a single blister,” she says. “There is something to be said for letting your feet be the shape they’re meant to be.”
Cheyenne buys her moccasins from a vendor at the annual Green River Rendezvous and works with an artisan on Etsy for the hide-topped moccasins she wears during archery hunting season.