Lori Heath
Meet John Murphy, a Foothills scramble, snowshoe, hiking, and trail running leader, as well as a 2022 Super Volunteer, Key Leader, and Key Instructor.
WHAT BROUGHT YOU TO THE PACIFIC NORTHWEST AND WHEN DID YOU COME?
I was born and raised in the Pacific Northwest. I left a few times but have always been drawn back by the beauty of the PNW and all the opportunity it offers for outdoor activities.
WHAT ATTRACTED YOU TO THE MOUNTAINEERS?
I joined The Mountaineers in 2010 when I caught the climbing bug after summitting Mount Rainier and wanted to learn more about mountaineering in a safe and structured environment. I volunteer to give back and pass on the knowledge and skills I learned from the volunteers before me. But going beyond that, I believes it's an investment in our community and those that live in it and that anytime someone is able to break past the borders and boundaries that hold them back it's a win-win situation for all.
WHAT HAVE BEEN YOUR FAVORITE VOLUNTEER MEMORIES WITH THE MOUNTAINEERS?
As a volunteer, I like nothing more than to hear that I've impacted someone’s life in a positive way, whether it was learning something new, accomplishing something they thought they couldn’t, or just having a good time.
WHAT ARE YOUR FAVORITE ACTIVITIES AND PLACES IN THE PNW BACKCOUNTRY?
It’s difficult for me to pick a favorite spot to recreate in the PNW because there are so many beautiful places, but I particularly love Mount Rainier National Park - any entrance, any trail, it’s got it all! My favorite outdoor activities are running, running, and a little more running.
I encourage members to check out the Foothills Trail Running Committee. They offer runs for all levels and no badge is required for the frontcountry runs.
