Lori Heath
Meet Chris Ensor, a Foothills Hike, Urban Walk, and Cross-Country Ski Leader and 2023 Super Volunteer. Chris has earned Key Leader and Super Volunteer badges every year since 2014. He earned the Foothills Branch Service Award in 2020.
What brought you to the Pacific Northwest and when did you come?
I arrived here in 1996 soon after marrying Val (Ensor, also a Mountaineer) in Scotland. I could not believe what a great region this is for outdoor recreation. Coming from the UK, I also loved the climate. It made me feel at home!
What attracted you to The Mountaineers?
I met some Mountaineers members while working in Tacoma shortly before I took early retirement in 2010. I was excited by the hiking and cross-country ski trips they described because these are my two main recreational interests. I jumped right in, completing the training and other steps required to lead hiking and ski trips with The Mountaineers. More recently, I have assisted getting urban walks activities off the ground.
What have been your favorite volunteer memories with The Mountaineers?
So many! I appreciate the opportunity to share my love of the outdoors and to become a trip leader and trainer, so I can share activities and skills with others. I particularly like to encourage and mentor new leaders, welcoming them into our branch's positive and supportive team.
What are your favorite activities and/or places in the PNW?
I love cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, walking, hiking, and cycling. I’m also fortunate to travel in the spring and fall. Locally, I’ve found wonderful places to adventure from Kent, where I live, to hiking trails near Mt. Rainer and beyond. I enjoy many ski trails near Snoqualmie Pass and in the Methow Valley. I’m currently exploring urban walks in Auburn, Puyallup, and other South Sound locations. There are so many opportunities in the PNW. Outside of The Mountaineers, I am currently training to be a King County/Washington State University Master Gardener.
