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: Nathan Wiggin
Hometown: Idaho Falls, Idaho
Member Since: October 2009
Occupation: Research Director
Favorite Activities: Backpacking, Scrambling, Skiing, Backcountry Skiing, Dayhikes
10 Essentials: Questions
How did you get involved with The Mountaineers?
My wife Kyra and I moved to Seattle the day after we got married in September, 2009. Growing up in Idaho and being a Boy Scout, I have always been a bit of an outdoorsy guy, and when we first moved here I knew that I wanted to meet people who enjoy the outdoors.
It didn't take me long to find The Mountaineers. I became a member after my first trip (day hike to Lena Lake) and have not looked back since.
What motivates you to get outside with us?
The people! Nearly every friend that we have made since moving to Seattle in 2009 has been through the Mountaineers!
What's your favorite Mountaineers memory?
Just one? Ugh, I can't really just pick one, so I'll pick two, no three; one for each "type" of fun.
- Type I Fun: Several years ago I lead a multi-day backpack along the Olympic coast. One of guys on the trip (Hi John!) is an avid Yogi and one evening he lead a group yoga session on the beach as we watched the sun go down over the pacific ocean.
- Type II: We did a foul weather ascent of Stuart. It was wet, it was cold, and the views were terrible, but in hindsight it was one of the most fun trips I have ever done.
- Type III: Just after reaching the top of Buckhorn Mountain on what was a beautiful morning. "Guys, this sudden blizzard will be here for a while, we need to get the hell down before we freeze to death."
Who/What inspires you?
The leaders and volunteers who put in countless hours to make this organization great. I constantly look up to them and wish I had their conviction.
What does adventure mean to you?
Getting outside, trying something new, and meeting new people.
Lightning Round
Sunrise or sunset? Sunrise.
Smile or game face? Smile.
What's your happy place? Under the stars.
Post-adventure meal of choice? Double greasy, double burger with bacon, mushrooms, jalapeno's, onions and pepper jack. Preferably made in a dive bar.
If you could be a rock star at any outdoor activity overnight, what would it be? Backcountry skiing!
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