A Bit About Me
Who I Am
My name is Ken Parker, and I am a Wilderness First Responder, Certified Personal Trainer, Backcountry Wilderness Guide, Staffing Director, Guide Relations Manager, SCUBA diver, and lifelong adventure enthusiast. I have spent more than 700 days in the backcountry, leading hikers through some of the most challenging terrain in the world, including the Grand Canyon.
I earned my degree in Social Psychology from Arizona State University in 2007. A year later, my life changed forever after a nearly fatal motorcycle accident. I crashed through the driver-side window of an F-150, suffering a collapsed lung, lacerated liver, nicked jugular, a partially severed ear, a crushed bone in my hand, and third-degree burns on my leg. During my 10-day stay in the hospital Doctors told me it was my daily climbing routine that likely saved my life. That moment taught me the importance of resilience, preparation, and living with purpose.
The Path Forward
After recovering, I committed to following my passions and helping others reconnect with their own strength and potential. I pursued a career in behavioral health and wilderness therapy, earning my Wilderness First Responder certification.
Working with individuals living with serious mental illness, I saw how time in nature could restore a sense of peace and joy. Whether it was a simple hike or a few hours playing disc golf, people changed when they stepped outside. Smiles replaced frowns, stress faded, and curiosity returned. Nature reminded them of who they were. It was at this time that I conceived of Wilderness Therapy Facilitation. A business dedicated to helping people gain the skills and confidence to access these natural spaces.
From Guiding to Building Community
To gain the experience needed, I began leading wilderness trips for the general public across Arizona, Colorado, and Utah. Using Leave No Trace principles and safety-first ethics, I guided hundreds of people through unforgettable outdoor experiences. Every trip reinforced the same truth: we all return from the wilderness stronger and more connected than when we left.
With my experience climbing, commercial guiding, and passion for community the next natural step is a dedicated space for adventure training!
What is ?Why The Face?’ Adventure Training Facility
Baically, you know you’re doing it right when you pull a stupid face! So, Why The Face? Adventure Training Facility will be a unique adventure and community hub located in Sedona’s former Majestic Theater. The facility will transform the existing IMAX auditorium with its vast theater space, offices, kitchen, and bar into a space dedicated to building skills, confidence, and community.
At its heart will be the tallest indoor rock wall in Arizona. The space will also host cooking classes, sports training, and community events designed to bring people together through movement, challenge, and fun.
This facility will serve as both a training ground and a meeting place. It will prepare people for real-world adventures while fostering a culture of exploration and connection.
Larger Philosophy
Sedona is known for transformation, and that spirit will live within Why The Face? Adventure Training Facility. Whether you are climbing, cooking, or connecting with others, every experience here is designed to remind you of what you are capable of achieving.
At WTF, we believe that stepping out of your comfort zone is where the real growth begins.
Why The Face? Adventure Training Facility
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