Aimee grew up getting dirty in the Utah Mountains, where she says backpacking and skiing were just the way of life. A former Mazama Board Member, Aimee has helped out with many of our class offerings, from Advanced Rock to First Aid. When not adventuring, Aimee is the co-founder and director of operations for Graphic 45, an award-winning scrapbook and paper crafting company.
Name: Aimee Filimoehala
Pronouns: she/her
Year Joined Mazamas: 2017
Present-day outdoor activities: I love being in the mountains, especially off the beaten path. My favorite activities include rock, ice, and alpine climbing, and exploring the mountains on skis.
What’s your earliest outdoor memory? I was fortunate to grow up in Utah at the foothills of the Wasatch Mountains, where I was exposed to hiking and skiing as a child.
How did you first hear about the Mazamas, and what prompted you to engage with the organization? After hiking and backpacking for years, I decided to climb Mount Adams. Early into the climb, I grasped that alpine climbing was much more demanding and consequential than your typical hike. I realized I wanted to acquire the necessary skills to be safe in the mountains, and I signed up for the Basic Climbing Education Program (BCEP) the next spring.
As more people seek to recreate outdoors, what advice would you offer them? Join an organization like the Mazamas or a meet-up group. I’ve met many amazing nature-loving people who have taught me so much.
What activities/situations/people most inspire you? I’m inspired by the members of Portland Mountain Rescue and the time they volunteer to help with Search and Rescue (SAR) missions on Mount Hood.
What is your favorite book/movie/TV show/social media account that you follow and why? Pick one. Alpinesavvy.com is a great resource for PNW climbing information like GPX tracks and route beta! I’ve downloaded maps and tracks for dozens of climbs.
What’s on your adventure bucket list? I’m hoping to get down to Peru and explore some of the Cordillera Blanca soon.