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 Ethan Kooistra (he/him)
Branch Seattle
When did you first get involved with The Mountaineers? 2025
What youth programs do you participate in with The Mountaineers? After-School and Junior MAC
10 ESSENTIAL QUESTIONS:
Why do you participate in Mountaineers Youth Programs?
I want to be outside and explore. I love to hike and climb.
What is your favorite Mountaineers memory?
To date, my favorite memory is seeing the top of Mt. Baker after a challenging snowshoe trip from The Mountaineers Baker Lodge. This is my favorite memory because I could've turned back when it was tough, but I kept on going and got to the viewpoint. I was proud of myself.
What is your favorite outdoor activity and why?
My favorite outdoor activity is exploring tide pools as I love to find all the little critters that live in the pools and under rocks.
If you could give one piece of advice to someone who wanted to spend more time outside, what would you say?
Join and get outside!
What things do you like to do when you’re not at Mountaineers youth programs?
Cooking, baking, Legos and escape rooms.
LIGHTNING ROUND
Sunrise or sunset? Sunrise
Favorite season? Winter
If you could have a superpower, what would it be? Hypnosis
What’s your 11th Essential? Small Lego set
What’s your favorite close-to-home adventure? Biking on the Burke Gilman
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.
