FAQ'S

FAQ'S

Read below for answers to some of the most common questions about participating with The Mountaineers.

Table of Contents

Joining & GUEST MEMBERSHIPS 

  • Q: Do I have to become a member or can I participate as a guest?
    A: To take advantage of all The Mountaineers has to offer, it's best to become a member. However, we do offer guest memberships as a way for you to try a couple of activities with us before you commit to a full membership. Guests may participate in a total of two activities before they must upgrade to a paid membership.
    All participants, whether they are members or guest members, must sign our liability waiver/release and indemnity agreement at least once per year before participating in any of our courses or activities. The liability waiver is linked to each individual's profile on www.mountaineers.org.
     
  • Q: I'm a member but my friend isn't. Can they go on a Mountaineers trip with me?
    A:  Non-members may participate if they sign up as a guest member. Guests are permitted to join activities so long as they have met the necessary prerequisites and have not already joined two activities within the past year.
     
  • Q: What are the advantages of becoming a member vs a guest ?
    A: Membership fees go directly to support our outdoor programs and conservation work. In addition to being part of a community that inspires you to go outside, membership with us has numerous benefits, including lower fees on our courses. If you plan to take a course with us, membership is the way to go.
     
  • Q: I bought an Adult membership, but now I'd like to add my spouse or kids. How can I upgrade to a Family membership?
    A: You may always upgrade your membership by simply paying the difference. Email info@mountaineers.org for assistance. 
     
  • Q: I have a Family membership. How do I add family members to it?
    A: Family memberships can include two adults and an unlimited number of kids under 18 in the same household. To add family members to your account, login and go to your profile page. Click the blue "Add Family Members" button in the upper right to get started. 

     

PREREQUISITES & BADGES

    • Q: When I try to sign up for something, why does it say I don't meet the prerequisites?
      A: Some of our courses and activities require that you have some technical knowledge and experience before participating. This ensures that everyone in the group is prepared and safe.
       
    • Q: How do I get the prerequisite experience, or earn a badge?
      A:  Visit our Course Overviews page to learn about the different courses you can take. Check under Find Courses and the Course Calendar to see what's currently available. Visit our Badges page to see all of the badge that you can earn.
    • Q: I already have the prerequisite skills from previous experience. Can I get the badge so I can participate?   
      A: You might qualify for equivalency. Email info@mountaineers.org and we will help you apply for equivalency so you can participate at the appropriate skill level.
       
    • Q: What does Leader's Permission mean and how do I  get it?
      A: The "Leader's Permission" restriction exists so leaders can verify that each participant is qualified to go on a specific trip. Usually the leader asks a series of questions or might have you fill out an application. Click here to learn more about how Leader's Permission works. Do not register until the leader responds and gives you approval, otherwise you'll be removed from the roster.

REGISTRATION & WAITLISTS

    • Q: How do I arrange a carpool for a trip?
      A: As a trip participant, it's up to you to take the initiative to organize a carpool. You can indicate your carpool preference on your profile and edit it for a specific activity. Many times a leader will suggest a park and ride en route to the trailhead or meeting point. Click here to learn more about how to set up your carpool preferences on your profile and how to email fellow trip participants.

    • Q: What do the different difficulty ratings mean?
      A: Difficulty ratings are provided to help you understand how challenging an activity is compared to your capabilities. This includes considering things like mileage, elevation change, and what technical skills may be required. Click here to read more about difficulty ratings and how to determine the best trip for your abilities and interests. 

    • Q: The trip I want to go on is full. Should I join the waitlist, and how will I know if a spot opens up?
      A:  If the course or activity you're interested in is full, you can join the waitlist, and you will receive an email from The Mountaineers if a spot becomes available. If there is a fee for the activity, you will have five days to login and make your payment before the spot is offered to someone else. 
       
    • Q: How can I tell what number am I on the waitlist?
      A: To see what number you are on the waitlist, click on "My Courses and Programs" or "My Activities" on your profile page and look under the "status" column. 
       
    • Q: Can I be signed up for one activity, but on the waitlist for another activity on the same date?
      A: You'll get a warning message saying you have a date conflict, but you may contact Member Services if you'd like us to override that restriction.
    • Q: Can I bring my dog on my hike/scramble/paddle etc?                                                                                                 
      A: Pets are generally not allowed on Mountaineers activities unless the activity specifically mentions that dogs are welcome to join. If you are interested in bringing your pet along on a trip, please contact the leader well in advance of the trip date.
      Service Animals: Please read our Service Animal Policy for information about how to participate in a Mountaineers activity with your service animal.
  • Q: I'm part of a course and I need to manage my registration. How do I do that?
    A. When you're enrolled in a course and need to register for or cancel  from a related activity, you should login to the website, visit the course page, and use the blue "manage registration" button to make changes. A step by step tutorial is provided below:

    How to manage your registration in a course:
    1.) Login to the website, click on your name in the upper right corner, and select "My Courses & Programs".

    2.) Click on the course title.

    3.) On the right side in the Registration window, click the blue “manage registration" button.


    4.) When the window pops up, select or de-select the box next to the activities that needs to be updated, and click the blue "Save Changes" button.


Have additional questions?

Please contact Member Services, or email info@mountaineers.org.