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: Bianca Szyperski
Hometown: Bellevue, WA
Member since: 2022
Favorite Activities: Walking, hiking, sailing
10 ESSENTIAL QUESTIONS:
WHAT FIRST BROUGHT YOU TO THE MOUNTAINEERS?
I got inspired to join The Mountaineers by my friend Mala who is very active within the organization.
WHAT’S YOUR FAVORITE MOUNTAINEERS MEMORY?
The graduation hike I did for the Conditioning Hiking Series. We hiked for 18 miles with an elevation gain of over 4,000ft. I never would've thought that my body was able to do this. I felt great, too! The Conditioning Hiking Series works.
What does Adventure with purpose mean to you?
To inspire people to learn new things outdoors in a sustainable way and to become confident in a new field.
WHAT INSPIRES YOU TO DONATE TO THE MOUTNAINEERS?
I love that The Mountaineers is a volunteer-led organization, but it still needs funds to operate and I love that grants are given. I hope my donations help to spread the word about the outdoors. Once you are outdoors, your worries fall aside for a few hours. Nature gives back so much, and there is also camaraderie in groups.
Lightning Round
Sunrise or sunset? Sunrise
Smile or game face? Smile
What's your favorite close-to-home outdoor activity? Hiking along the I-90 corridor
What's your 11th Essential? Chocolate
Post-trip meal or go-to place of choice? Anything goes after a big hike
If you could be adept at any outdoor activity overnight, what would it be? I would love to know all of the flower and plant names and be able to forage for mushrooms
