Co-Founder & Foundational Leader, State of the Snowpack / Owner & Lead Guide Kootenay Backcountry Guides

Judson Wright was one of the original driving forces behind State of the Snowpack — a guide, educator, and visionary who helped shape SOTS from a small community gathering into a national public-safety movement.

As an ACMG Ski Guide and CAA Professional, Judson believed deeply in making the backcountry safer, more accessible, and more connected. His leadership style was humble, generous, and unwaveringly community-focused. Whether he was sharing thoughtful snowpack insights, building systems that strengthened professional standards, or mentoring new guides, Judson showed all of us what it means to lead with integrity and care.

Judson brought the same spirit to SOTS that he brought to the mountains:
clarity, curiosity, accountability, and a fierce commitment to helping people come home safely.
He championed good decision-making, honest conversations, mentorship, and the power of local knowledge. Much of SOTS’s culture — our emphasis on education, community, and professional excellence — exists because of him.

Judson passed away in November 2025, and his absence is felt every single day.
But his influence continues to guide our work.
SOTS will always carry forward his mission to empower backcountry users, uplift guides, and strengthen community connections across Canada.

We honour Judson by doing the work he believed in:
showing up for each other, sharing what we know, and keeping people safe in the mountains he loved.

Support Judson’s Family by donating to the GoFundMe here

Donate to the Judson Wright Legacy Fund