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: Lisa Hayek
Hometown: Port Orchard, WA
Member Since: April 2016
Occupation: REI Sales Specialist
Favorite Activities: Day hiking and backpacking
10 Essentials: Questions
How did you get involved with The Mountaineers?
My parents actually met on a Mountaineers hike back in the 80s, so I was brought up immersed in the Mountaineers community. We were involved through hiking, backpacking, car camps and endless trips to the Snoqualmie Mountaineers Lodge. I recently rejoined the Mountaineers to get back out there after living both out of state and abroad for the past five years.
While I lived in New Mexico, I worked as a backpacking guide at Philmont Scout Ranch for three summers teaching navigation, first aid, bear procedures and all sorts of outdoor safety as we hiked and camped. I also lived in Chile for nearly four years, where my husband is from, and we were able to explore the country through road tripping, backpacking and hitch hiking. I ended up in the most remote places I had ever hiked on those trips and will always look back on those adventures with gratitude for the natural beauty and wonderful people that we encountered along the way. After my adventures around the country and around the world, I have discovered that there really is no place like Western Washington, with so many mountains, lakes, rivers, ocean and forests right at our fingertips. I am excited to be back and hit the trail!
What motivates you to get outside with us?
Here in Western Washington we have endless opportunities to explore nature, so why not get out there? The Mountaineers is a great way to enjoy the beautiful outdoors and at the same time meet people from diverse backgrounds. I love to get to know people and hear their unique stories while hiking.
What's your favorite Mountaineers memory?
I loved the Snoqualmie Mountaineers Lodge. My family went week after week both during the summer and the winter. Whether it was inner tubing, skiing on the two ski hills, tracking bunny snow tracks through the woods or folk dancing to my friend's dad's fiddle playing, that place was a blast and I owe many cherished memories to it!
Who/What inspires you?
My dad became active again with The Mountaineers about five years ago and since then he has been leading many hikes, helping others enjoy the outdoors. I am excited that he has become such a dedicated hike leader and I hope to lead even a fraction as many trips has he does, since I just became a hike leader myself.
What does adventure mean to you?
It means living life to the fullest, never letting a little challenge hold you back.
Lightning Round
Sunrise or sunset? Sunset.
Smile or game face? Smile.
What's your happy place? Anywhere completely surrounded by nature.
Post-adventure meal of choice? A hefty burrito.
If you could be a rock star at any outdoor activity overnight, what would it be? Rock climbing.
Know someone who should be featured?
Have you had a memorable experience with The Mountaineers you'd like to share, or know someone who should share their story? Submit your info for a chance to be featured!
