The Mountaineers
Each week we bring you a personal story from one of our members. For our member profile this week we talked to...
Name Elsa Griffaton (she/her)
Branch Seattle
When did you first get involved with The Mountaineers? 2023
What youth programs do you participate in with The Mountaineers? Mountaineers Adventure Club (MAC)
10 ESSENTIAL QUESTIONS:
How did you first get involved with The Mountaineers?
Both of my older brothers were in MAC. Hearing about the awesome stuff they did got me excited for when I would be old enough to join!
Why do you participate in Mountaineers Youth Programs?
I participate in MAC because of the opportunities I get to be outdoors and challenge myself in ways I could never do by myself! I enjoy being around all of the students, staff, and volunteers who give me the resources and knowledge to try new things!
What is your favorite Mountaineers memory?
I have so many fond memories with MAC but if I had to pick one, my favorite memory would have to be the time we climbed Forbidden Peak. Not only was the hiking and climbing enjoyable, and the views were some of the most beautiful, but it was also hard and kind of scary! What was amazing is how the people around me made sure I always felt comfortable and safe.
There were a few times on that trip where not everything went to plan. On one of those instances, we were crossing over a steep section, and I slipped. Thankfully I caught myself, but in that moment, I was scared and things could've ended way worse than they did. After we got over that steep section my group took a break, they made sure I was ok and still comfortable continuing on. Thanks to them, I was fine and we were able to continue and summit! Later, we debriefed and talked about things we would do differently for next time. That trip taught me that I can do hard things especially when I surround myself with people who care!
What is your favorite outdoor activity and why?
I love multipitch and alpine climbs! I think the longer and harder the approach, the sweeter the summit! As long as I'm in good company and outdoors, there is no amount of suffering I'm not willing to attempt!
If you could give one piece of advice to someone who wanted to spend more time outside, what would you say?
DO IT! There are so many incredible things about the programs! The people are so fun and ambitious, I have definitely made some lifelong friends through MAC. The variety of outdoor activities you get to try, from skiing to hiking to climbing and more, it's impossible to find something you won't be passionate doing outdoors!
LIGHTNING ROUND
Sunrise or sunset? Sunset
Favorite season? Summer
If you could have a superpower, what would it be? Flying
What’s your 11th Essential? Sour Patch Kids!
Favorite post activity meal? A burger and milkshake
NOMINATE YOURSELF FOR MOUNTAINEER OF THE WEEK
Mountaineers come in all shapes and sizes, varying widely in age, outdoor experience, and length of time involved in The Mountaineers. Part of what makes our community so unique is the broad diversity of our membership, and we hope these weekly features highlight who we are and why our community plays an important part in feeling belonging in the outdoors. We are always seeking self-nominations for our Mountaineer of the Week, and we invite you to share your story. Trust us, we want to hear from you!
Want to nominate a friend? Email Bayley Cahill to make a recommendation.
