James Mills' profile picture. A Black man in a grey hat and a yellow plaid short-sleeve shirt smiles at the camera against a grey background.

James Edward Mills

Journalist

The Joy Trip Project

Hometown: Los Angeles, CA

James Edward Mills is a freelance journalist and National Geographic Explorer who specializes in telling stories about outdoor recreation, environmental conservation, acts of charitable giving, and practices of sustainable living. He has worked in the outdoor industry since 1989 as a guide, outfitter, independent sales representative, writer, and photographer. He is the author of the book “The Adventure Gap: Changing the Face of the Outdoors” and the co-writer/co-producer of the documentary film An American Ascent.
James has written for the Wisconsin State Journal, Madison Magazine, and Wisconsin Trails. He is currently a contributor to several outdoor-focused print and online publications such as National Geographic Adventure, Rock & Ice, Alpinist, SUP, Elevation Outdoors, Women’s Adventure, the Clymb, Park Advocate, High Country News, Land & People, Sierra, Backpacker, Outside Magazine, The Guardian and The New York Times.

Talks:

The Adventure Gap ~ Changing the Face of the Outdoors

A presentation on the role of people of color in the protection and preservation of out public land and national heritage.

Additional Resources: