VOM Sept 2026: Shaun Goulet

Meet Shaun Goulet, who is leading our newest section, Prism Peak!

Prism Peak is a purpose-driven community within the Colorado Mountain Club dedicated to making the outdoors a more welcoming and inclusive space for LGBTQ+, BIPOC, and women hikers, as well as allies. More information here!

• How long have you been with CMC? What brought you to CMC? I have been part of the CMC officially for about 3+ years now. However, life intervened, so I took about a year-long intermission in the middle. As of this year I am back full-force and soaking up all the sun-filled activities the CMC has to offer! I joined the CMC originally when I first moved to Denver from Michigan in order to explore the outdoors and meet like-minded recreation enthusiasts. Since then I have expanded my interests beyond hiking. I joined the climbing section as well as started my own new section called Prism Peak! Prism Peak is the newest section (currently nestled within Trailblazers) of the CMC focused on social-based hikes that are specifically open to LGBTQIA+/BIPOC/Women individuals and allies. Prism Peak has been well-received by the CMC so far, and I am so excited for what is to come! 

• Do you have a particularly memorable moment with CMC or in the outdoors? Any hike with Wayne. He is a unique character (in the best way) and keeps you on your toes! His hikes (and commentary) are always entertaining. I highly recommend joining one of his hikes, especially the Ascending Hikes events!  I have also enjoyed joining the climbing section, which is an activity I always thought I was too scared to do. Thanks to my great mentor, Hannah K. of the climbing section, I have conquered my fears and kept climbing on! Starting the Prism Peak section has also been a huge highlight. It has been amazing to see such a diverse and sociable group of folks hit the trails and make new friends! A special thank you to David Swenson, Hannah Korrell, and Maggie Henderson for all of their help with Prism Peak! They have been integral to its success! Thank you to all who have joined us on the trails so far! 

• What's your favorite trail snack? Oooo good question! I've gotta say my handy-dandy squeezable apple sauce from Trader Joe's is usually packed in my bag for most hikes! It's a quick and refreshing trail treat, plus I feel healthy when I have it because... well, it's apples (just don't think about the sugar)! I'll usually have some protein bars packed away too because I am very good at not giving myself enough time for breakfast before hitting the trails in the morning! Gotta stay energized! 

• Anything else? If you are a hiker-liker that is looking for other LGBTQIA+/BIPOC/Woman folk to hit the trails with, then Prism Peak is your group! All are welcome on Prism Peak hikes regardless of age, sexual orientation, or any other identities; the trails are for everyone! If you are interested, please email myself at sprucegoosehikes@gmail.com! Bring a friend!