Our Story

Jess and Elyse Darwood operate a pack outfit, steeped in local history and family tradition. The pack outfit was originally founded in 1934 by Ole Scott. In 1982, his nephew and employee, Steve Darwood purchased the outfit which became Cascade Wilderness Outfitters. Steve’s family homesteaded in the Methow Valley in 1889, just three miles from Darwood Outfitting’s home base. In 2020, the family owned and operated business transitioned again as Steve handed the reins to his son and employee of 23 years, Jess Darwood.

Jess and Steve have spent decades working together, packing, guiding, shoeing, training and building custom saddles. Along with his wife and children, Jess is honored to carry on the family business and share his love of the wilderness with generations to come.