The Mountaineers was established in 1906 and over the years has grown into the largest outdoor-recreation organization in the Northwest, including branches in Seattle, Tacoma, Olympia, Everett, Bellingham, Wenatchee, and Kitsap County. The Tacoma Branch was founded in 1912. As our membership grew, our activities increased to include a wide array of muscle-powered outdoor endeavors. However, some things about The Mountaineers never change.  Our philosophy and purpose are the same as when the organization was formed almost 100 hundred years ago.

The Purposes

• To explore and study the mountains, forests, and water courses of the Northwest
• To gather into permanent form the history and traditions of this region
• To preserve by the encouragement of protective legislation or otherwise the natural beauty of the Northwest America
• To make expeditions into these regions in fulfillment of the above purposes
• To encourage a spirit of good fellowship among all lovers of outdoor life