About Katt

Katt Hendershot is a wildlife and photography guide with a passion for creating meaningful connections between people and the natural world. Based in Haines, Alaska, she loves sharing the incredible wildlife, landscapes, and stories of Southeast Alaska with guests while helping them better understand and appreciate the places they visit.

Katt’s background combines conservation, tourism, and hands-on guiding. She earned a B.S. in Human Dimensions of Natural Resources from Colorado State University, with minors in Conservation Biology and Diversity and Inclusion in Natural Resources, followed by a master’s degree in Tourism Management focused on adventure travel. Her academic and professional work has centered on wildlife conservation, responsible tourism, and how meaningful travel experiences can inspire people to become better stewards of the natural world.

Before becoming a guide, Katt worked for a conservation-focused luxury safari company, coordinating wildlife-focused travel around the world. While she loved the work, she realized that she wanted to be in the field, sharing these experiences directly with guests. Inspired by the guides who made a lasting impact on her own travels, she made the transition into guiding and hasn’t looked back.

Today, Katt specializes in wildlife and photography tours, particularly bear viewing. She is passionate about interpreting animal behavior, sharing the science and stories behind the wildlife guests encounter, and creating safe, engaging experiences for everyone. She has been recognized in more than 20 five-star guest reviews for her knowledge, enthusiasm, and dedication to guest experience.

Her experience also includes working as a Wilderness First Aid Instructor, climbing wall staff member, and outdoor guide. She is a Wilderness First Responder, Leave No Trace Trainer, Red Cross Wilderness First Aid Instructor, and Commercial Bear Viewing Association of British Columbia Level 1 Bear Guide.

Katt has traveled to six of the seven continents, including extensive travel in Africa and Antarctica. Some of her most memorable experiences have been learning from the guides and naturalists who introduced her to new places and wildlife, and she now hopes to create those same meaningful experiences for others.

For Katt, guiding is about more than finding wildlife. It’s about creating experiences that are educational, personal, and memorable and leaving guests with a deeper appreciation for the wild places and animals we are fortunate enough to share.