Getting to know Kristen Keogh, new host of ‘Trail Mix’d’

Eight-episode third season coming to Arizona PBS Thursdays at 7:30 p.m. starting Feb. 5, 2026

For Kristen Keogh, hosting “Trail Mix’d” feels like coming full circle – a perfect blend of her two worlds: a lifelong love of hiking and a celebrated career in broadcasting. Having spent countless days on the trails with her son, Teddy, and golden retriever, Kasey, Kristen now brings Arizona PBS viewers along to join her in discovering the peaks, paths, and hidden gems of Arizona’s great outdoors.  

Q: What has it been like stepping into the role of host for “Trail Mix’d” this season?  
It has been thrilling! I feel that my accomplishments both personally and professionally prepared me for this role. Outside of my career, my greatest passion has been hiking for many years. I even started a blog in 2017 to encourage others to hike. As the “Trail Mix’d” host, I get to reach an entirely new audience whom I hope we can inspire to explore the outdoors. 

Q: You’ve explored some incredible trails! Is there one that’s been particularly memorable or meaningful for you? 
In Arizona, the Watson Lake Loop Trail is special to me because it’s where I took my son Teddy on our first hike when he was an infant. I had him in a carrier on my chest and it was incredible sharing my favorite place in the state with my son.  

Outside of Arizona, hiking Half Dome in Yosemite meant the world to me. I drove to California without the required permit to complete the hike, but I was determined to take on the trail, so I entered the daily lottery and earned the permit! I completed the incredibly challenging hike, including the 400 feet vertical cables at the end, solo. I was so proud, and I continue to draw strength from that experience.

Q: You’ve spoken openly about your recovery from brain surgery. How has that journey influenced the way you approach the outdoors and your work this season? 
It’s made me truly cherish every chance we get to make the most of each day and do what we love, and for me that is hiking. Every opportunity we get to witness this beautiful state is a gift and my enthusiasm is apparent on every trail. I also realize how many other people are in a health battle and hiking may not be possible for them right now. I am motivated to show people how to enjoy the outdoors in ways that suit their current ability.  

Something I say a lot on social media is that no one is keeping score. If you can’t complete a hike, nobody is judging you. If your health limits your ability to hike, that is okay! I want people to know that what matters is just getting outside regardless of if you’re sitting in a green space in the city or on the top of the highest peak. When I was recovering from brain surgery, I couldn’t hike, so I walked. Just hearing the birds, soaking up sunshine and feeling the breeze helped me heal. 

Q: What does being part of the Arizona PBS family mean to you? 
It means serving Arizonans. I’m truly honored to be an Arizona PBS host, and I don’t take this role lightly. I am committed to holding myself to the high standards of PBS and delivering information to Arizonans that can improve their lives and amplify their love for our great state. 

Q: If you could describe this season in three words, what would they be? 
Thrilling, Enlightening, Majestic 

Fast favorites

Favorite PBS show? ‘Theodore Tugboat’ and ‘Antiques Roadshow’

Bucket list travel destination? Norway 

Best concert? George Strait with Dierks Bentley and Taylor Swift 

Last series binged? Ginny and Georgia 

Favorite hiking trail? Piestewa Peak 

Best view from an Arizona hiking trail? Mooney Falls when hiking Havasupai

Favorite trail mix recipe:

• Pineapple Paradise Mix 
• 1 cup unsalted walnuts 
• 1 cup unsalted cashews 
• ½ cup sweetened dried pineapple cubes 
• ½ cup banana chips 
• ½ cup dried cranberries 
• ¼ cup dried coconut flakes

Stay tuned for season 3 of “Trail Mix’d” next year, and in the meantime, stream seasons 1 and 2 online or on the PBS app.