After meeting as grad students at Utah State University, Ryan and Rebecca knew that their futures would include a venture that could bring their mutual love of the outdoors, travel and unique experiences and accommodations to others.
Ryan, who holds a Master’s degree in Natural Resource Management, was most recently the Director of Outdoor Recreation at Montana State University in Bozeman, Montana. Ryan spent many years working professionally in the public sector of higher education, also serving as an assistant director of Utah State University's Outdoor Program. Prior to that, his time spent as an outdoor educator, wilderness river guide, ski patroller and wild land firefighter helped to shape his love and respect of all things outdoors and experiential.
Rebecca, who holds a PhD in Watershed Sciences, works as a fluvial geomorphologist (aka river scientist). She has studied river systems in diverse settings from the Adirondack Mountains to Peru. Rebecca currently holds a full-time position as a research faculty member with the University of Vermont. Rebecca has hiked, kayaked, rock climbed and rafted through some of the most incredible ecosystems on the planet.
Through our travels, we have kept an eye on what matters most to us: surrounding ourselves with exceptional people, quality time in the outdoors, and a sustainable, healthy lifestyle. Our life-long dream of sharing those things with others became a reality when we purchased our first vacation rental property, Wilder Farm on the River. We have since expanded and Downstream Enterprises both owns and manages multiple rental properties in the idyllic Mad River Valley, nestled amongst Vermont's Green Mountains. We couldn't think of any better place to be raising our family while managing a business that helps share the special experiences here with our guests and clients.
The passion we share for delicious food, good conversation, and comfortable spaces are evident in all aspects of the operation. Together with our daughter Iris, son Wyatt and dogs Rosie & Fletch, we welcome you to the Mad River Valley and look forward to hosting your visit.