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 Jhanielle Vinluan (she/her)
Hometown Ewa Beach, Hawai'i
Member Since 2018
Occupation Endoscopy Registered Nurse
Favorite Activities Trail running, hiking, skiing, and have been enjoying getting more into scrambling and mountaineering
10 Essential Questions:
What first brought you to The Mountaineers?
I first joined The Mountaineers in 2018 when I was newer to Washington and wanted to get into hiking and snowshoeing, but didn't want to do it alone. I built up a lot of more experience and confidence hiking on my own and with friends over the years. I rejoined in 2024 for the Alpine Scrambling course to expand my hiking skills and abilities.
Why do you like getting outside with us?
I like getting outside with The Mountaineers because I can learn new skills outside my comfort zone and find new ways to enjoy the outdoors. The Mountaineers has been a great way to connect with like minded people. I also appreciate their focus on safety and sustainability when recreating outdoors.
What's your favorite Mountaineers memory?
My favorite Mountaineers memory so far was participating in a snow scramble to Snoqualmie Mountain this May. It was my first real snow scramble. There was lots of steep travel through snow and route finding. I was absolutely blown away by the views of Rainier and the Alpine Lakes Wilderness the first time I turned around after being above the treeline. It felt surreal to be eating my sandwich for lunch with those views and for our group to be the only ones out there. I was pushed physically and mentally, and showed myself that I am capable of accomplishing great things.
Who/What inspires you?
Being out in nature allows me to be in tune with my thoughts, my body, and my surroundings. The beauty of nature motivates me to push my limits. I am also inspired by the amazing scrambling leaders and students, from the climbs they’ve done to the goals they have and the wisdom they’ve gained along their journey.
What does adventure mean to you?
Adventure is seeking new experiences outside your comfort zone. It’s an opportunity for growth and seeing the beauty in the world. Adventure is also better when you’re able to share those experiences with others.
Lightning round
Sunset or sunrise? Sunset
Smile or game face? Smile
What's your 11th Essential? Nerds Gummy Clusters!
What's your happy place? Any beach in Hawai'i or any alpine lake
Post-adventure meal of choice? Something warm and quick like a burger or burrito
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 Stejer to make a recommendation.
