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: Simon Hove
Branch: Seattle
When did you first get involved with The Mountaineers? 2021
What youth programs do you participate in with The Mountaineers? Explorers, Junior MAC, and MAC
10 ESSENTIAL QUESTIONS:
Why do you participate in Mountaineers Youth Programs?
The outdoors is a place for me to recharge and The Mountaineers has been my gateway into these outdoor spaces. Before joining MAC, the possibilities of outdoor recreation were limited to day hikes and dreaming about one day going on a backpacking trip. Little did I know that joining the youth clubs would allow me to backpack and much more. Since joining, I’ve been able to climb beautiful granite faces in Canada, summit stunning mountains in the North Cascades, and meet wonderful people along the way. I am so grateful for the community and opportunity I’ve had here.
What is your favorite Mountaineers memory?
It’s hard to pinpoint just one memory as my favorite, but there is one trip that has a special place in my heart; backpacking the High Divide Trail. This was a partially last-minute trip due to wildfire smoke, lottery-winning, and Covid scares; we weren’t even sure the trip would run until we ended up at the trailhead and set out on our way. During the two days we backpacked, many laughs were had and many gorgeous views were enjoyed. More important than that, however, this trip highlighted for me the joy of visiting the places I love with the people I love. At the end of our trek, the whole group walked back to the cars with smiles on our faces.
What is your favorite outdoor activity and why?
My favorite outdoor activity depends on the day you ask! Sometimes, I want to crush overhung cave climbs at Exit 38 and other times I just want to walk in the urban parks throughout Seattle. However, I have consistently enjoyed climbing and developing my skills in the vertical world over the last few years. The combination of physical and mental challenge really attracts me. As much as I enjoy challenging myself, I’ve found that climbing doesn’t have to be about who can pull the hardest or clip the chains at the top of a route first. Instead it can be about enjoying the movement of your body on the rock, breathing fresh air, and being outside with friends.
What have you learned at The Mountaineers that you have applied to other parts of your life?
I have learned so much about risk management, whether it is making a decision in the backcountry or deciding whether to speed through a yellow light. The information taught and experiences I have had on MAC trips is invaluable in everyday life. I have also learned a lot about organizing groups of people, big and small; like what a challenge it can be to ensure that everyone knows what gear they need, where they’re going, and how they’re getting there. Practicing, receiving help, and, most importantly, learning how to use and create templates has helped me organize personal trips and keep myself more together.
What things do you like to do when you’re not at Mountaineers youth programs?
On the rare occasions I am not outside on some adventure, I find joy in cooking and baking. I’ve loved the kitchen since I could walk, and good food is one of my greatest pleasures. Whether in the morning or evening, my cooking ritual involves lighting candles, turning on Erykah Badu, lighting incense, and getting cooking.
LIGHTNING ROUND
Gummy candy or chocolate bar? This is hard, but I am going to have to say gummy candy.
If you could have a superpower, what would it be? Talking to animals.
What’s your favorite close-to-home adventure? Exploring different Seattle neighborhoods at night.
What’s your 11th Essential? My knitting.
Favorite post-activity meal? A cold bell pepper
