Lel Tone

Heli Ski Guide, Avalanche Technician, Mountain Lover

Hometown Switzerland

Current Town Lake Tahoe, California

Instagram @leltone

Lel grew up in Switzerland in the shadow of the Alps. Her parents introduced her to skiing at the age of two and from that moment, she was hooked! That's when her love for the mountains began.

Since that time she has managed to keep the cubicle at bay and works in the mountains every chance she gets. Lel spends her winters working as a ski patroller, heli ski guide in Alaska for Tordrillo Mountain Lodge, avalanche educator and avalanche forecaster for the Union Pacific Railroad. She splits her time between Tahoe, Alaska and Idaho with her partner and two pups, and when she isn't working she's mountain biking in the hills, running rivers, fly fishing, walking in the woods looking for elk or honing her skills as a finish carpenter.

Which of Stio's values personally align to you?

Stio's commitment to sustainable practices and inclusion are the values that resonate most deeply for me. The outdoors ARE for everyone! They are devoid of judgment, a place of solitude and beauty, a place to push your self and your limits. They allow one to just be in the moment and see life for the miracle that it is. As a guide and educator, I get to witness firsthand the impact of the outdoors on countless friends, clients and students. We are so very blessed to get to live on this beautiful planet, and we must advocate for her and take care of her.

How do you create balance in your daily life?

I find balance in my daily life through spending time in the outdoors—doesn't matter what it is. It always grounds me, instantly reduces stress and improves my physical and mental well-being. It allows me to reconnect with nature and myself. Being outside fills my heart with gratitude and reminds me to try and be my best self and make every precious second count.

What is a bucket list activity you have yet to do or a place that you have yet to go?

To meet His Holiness the Dalai Lama!

What is your go-to workout music?

I prefer the sound of silence when I'm outside doing fun stuff, and Bob Marley is my jam any other time.

What is a piece of advice you would give to someone who wants to pursue a life of mountain sports and adventures?

The most important thing to remember when working and playing in the mountains is humility. Mother Nature calls all the shots. Period. The mountains don't care about your goals, your agenda or your ego. We must be prepared, be smart, try to make sound decisions and be ready when the time is right and the mountains allow us to do what we desire.