Hulda Crooks

Hulda Crooks (May 19, 1896 – November 23, 1997) was an American mountaineer and supercentenarian who became famous as "Grandma Whitney" for her record-setting hikes up Mount Whitney and other challenging peaks in her later years. Born in Saskatchewan, Canada, Crooks moved to the United States where she eventually took up hiking and mountaineering as hobbies after the death of her husband. Despite starting her mountaineering career at the age of 65, Crooks' achievements in the field have inspired many, particularly older adults, to pursue their fitness and outdoor adventure dreams.

Early Life[edit | edit source]

Hulda Crooks was born in a small town in Saskatchewan, Canada. She grew up in a rural setting, which instilled in her a love for the outdoors from a young age. After moving to the United States, she married and settled down, leading a relatively sedentary lifestyle until the death of her husband in the mid-20th century prompted her to seek solace in nature and physical activity.

Mountaineering Career[edit | edit source]

Crooks began her mountaineering career at the age of 65, a time when most people consider retiring from physically demanding activities. Her first major achievement was climbing Mount Whitney, the highest peak in the contiguous United States, at the age of 66. This feat was just the beginning of her late-life adventures. Over the next two decades, she successfully summited Mount Whitney 23 times, with her last ascent at the age of 91. Crooks also climbed numerous other peaks in the United States and abroad, including Mount Fuji in Japan.

Her accomplishments garnered significant media attention, and she became an inspiration for seniors worldwide. Crooks was a strong advocate for the benefits of physical activity and outdoor adventures, regardless of age. Her philosophy was that age should not be a barrier to achieving one's dreams, a message that resonated with many.

Legacy[edit | edit source]

Hulda Crooks' legacy is marked by her contributions to promoting health and fitness among older adults. In recognition of her achievements and advocacy, a park in Loma Linda, California, where she lived for many years, was named Hulda Crooks Park. Additionally, in 1990, she was inducted into the California Outdoors Hall of Fame, highlighting her significant impact on outdoor recreation and mountaineering.

Crooks' story continues to inspire not only senior citizens but people of all ages to pursue their passions and maintain an active, healthy lifestyle. Her life is a testament to the idea that it is never too late to start an adventure or to achieve one's goals.

Death[edit | edit source]

Hulda Crooks passed away on November 23, 1997, at the age of 101. Her life and achievements continue to be celebrated by outdoor enthusiasts and those advocating for active aging.