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 Krithika Sankaranarayanan (she/her)
Hometown Kovilpatti, South India
Member Since October 2023
Occupation I own my small business: Kritikal Adventures LLC, building a community of hike-minded people who meet every weekend and get some Vitamin-L (Laughter).
Favorite Activities Of course hiking. I also like camping near rivers, reading books in the middle of wilderness while immersed in beautiful scenery, making goofy poses with my hiking people, and identifying PNW wildflowers and tree varieties.
10 Essential Questions:
What first brought you to The Mountaineers?
I wanted to be part of an outdoor community. My main objective as a hike leader is to make hiking a fun and social activity, similar to hanging out in a restaurant or bar. My style of hiking is social - we talk a lot! Talking is also my way of measuring cardio to set pace for the group. (You can walk as long as you are able to talk.)
I love the camaraderie formed when people bring their genuine selves to the outdoors where there is no judgment. When there are smiles, the miles are more easily done.
Why do you like getting outside with us?
Because of the community. Every individual I meet is unique, and they bring a whole new perspective during a conversation. Hiking gives me the opportunity and time to learn and share things with other Mountaineers. Plus, I get to meet some cool people whose experiences humble me and inspire me to explore more.
What's your favorite Mountaineers memory?
I went on a hike in February 2024 to Tiger Mountain 1, 2, and 3. It was cold and windy at the top, and rainy as well (of course). Had I hiked by myself, I wouldn't have enjoyed it. Having company to share the miserable moments with transformed that experience into something more memorable. Company is always good in the outdoors – physically and mentally. That experience also made me fall in love with hiking in the PNW rain.
Who/What inspires you?
Every time I am outside stretching my limits, I discover a new self. Summiting mountains or accomplishing insurmountable outdoor feats brings an immense amount of joy and pride that redefines my beliefs and values. It is the mountain that teaches me to take one step at a time, and that learning stays with me long after I leave the mountain.
What does adventure mean to you?
Stepping out of my comfort zone and being open to a new experience, regardless of whether it is joyous or miserable. In the worst case, there is an engaging story to share. The adventure is what shapes everyone into who they are.
Lightning round
Smile or game face? Smile
What's your 11th Essential? Book/Kindle
What's your happy place? My car’s driver seat
Post-adventure meal of choice? Dosa and sambar
If you could be a rockstar at any outdoor activity overnight, what would it be? Swimming. I swim one to two times a week
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.
This article originally appeared in our winter 2025 issue of Mountaineer magazine. To view the original article in magazine form and read more stories from our publication, visit our magazine archive.
