Foothills Volunteer Spotlight: Sarah Hess

Our Foothills volunteers and activity leaders are the heart and soul of our branch. This month we celebrate Sarah Hess.
Lori Heath Lori Heath
Foothills Communications Volunteer
January 08, 2025
Foothills Volunteer Spotlight: Sarah Hess

Meet Sarah, a Foothills hike and backpack leader, Key Instructor, Key Leader, and Super Volunteer who embraces The Mountaineers mission to help people build skills and feel comfortable outside.


What brought you to the Pacific Northwest and when did you come?

I've been here forever, except for five years out of state for college. I was born in Skagit County and grew up and still live in Island County. I get really twitchy if I’m in a city or inland too long, away from the water and mountains.


What attracted you to The Mountaineers?

I led a lot of summer camp adventure trips during my teen years. In my twenties, I was looking for more off-trail travel and took the 1986 Basic Alpine Climbing course, so I could climb with friends. I loved the course and the people and have stuck around since.


What have been your favorite volunteer memories with The Mountaineers?

My favorite memories are always about people, sharing adventures, striving for a common goal, enjoying a simpler life on the trail, and working together.


What are your favorite activities and/or places in the PNW?

From April through October, my favorite activities are hiking and backpacking with some water sports thrown in. November through March, it’s all about skiing. My favorite places? I’m not willing to publicly share those, but in general, higher elevation is always better!

Why do you volunteer with The Mountaineers?

I appreciate The Mountaineers mission to help people build skills and feel comfortable outside. I also enjoy meeting great people and doing adventurous trips with them.