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: Scott Shafter
Hometown: Woodinville, WA
Member Since: February 1997
Occupation: Teacher
Favorite Activities: Mountaineering, alpine and glacier climbing, Nordic skiing
10 Essentials: Questions
How did you get involved with The Mountaineers?
I climbed Mt Rainier in 1995 with Rainier Mountaineering Incorporated (RMI). I was living in St. Louis at the time so seeing Mt Rainier for the first time was like seeing something out of a fairy tale. I grew up in the Michigan and there was nothing but horizon everywhere you looked. That climb was the hardest thing I ever did, and I was hooked. After that I decided to move to Seattle. I joined the basic class the next year and have been involved ever since.
I was one of the slowest people in my basic class. I had medical challenges that required extensions in both the basic and intermediate climbing programs. I had two kids and a divorce during the same time. To new people today, I want to say, don't be afraid to go for it. If I can do it, you can. The mountains are my place and have kept me safe. The people I have met are now my best friends. I'll be here for a long time.
What motivates you to get outside with us?
I really like who I am when I am in the mountains. Pushing my limits and exploring new places with good friends is very addicting. The mountains give me reason and purpose that keep me motivated and engaged.
What's your favorite Mountaineers memory?
There are so many. But, the people I climb with are number one. You, The Mountaineers, are one of a kind and bring so much to the experience. I really enjoy meeting and making new friends with every climb and epic in the mountains. It all boils down to being in beautiful rugged places with good friends. Adventuring with like-minded people in vertical terrain is a great formula for memories.
Who/What inspires you?
The people of The Mountaineers inspire me. The relationships I have made and the experience I have had keep me going. Its all about the people you hang out with, no matter what you are doing.
What does adventure mean to you?
Adventure to me means pushing your limits, going beyond what you think you can do, and accepting your fear and dealing with it. Adventure can big or small, its just getting outside your comfort zone. I like the quote by Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, “If your dreams do not scare you, they are not big enough.”
Lightning Round
What's your happy place? High mountain basins with a water source.
If you could be a rock star at any outdoor activity overnight, what would it be? Paragliding. My knees aren't going to last much longer.
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