It's a matter of opinion, on where is better for mountaineering. All of the activities I listed are closer to BYU campus then what you have in Seattle. That's a fact. Too say my argument holds no water seems insincere to me.
I don't know what he likes, I just know what he said. If he's talking outdoors stuff, then I say come to Utah. While Seattle is a great area, I would still take this area over it. Especially if you have a car.
Of the things I prefer...Skiing, Mountainbiking, Utah is superior, and it's not debatable. Been skiing for 30+ years, all over the world. Utah's snow is superior by a long shot, and it's 45 min. away. Great Mountains near Seattle, but you may need your rain gear. Had races cancelled up there due to rain.
It's stupid that we're arguing this. I'm basically saying if this is part of his lifestyle, it should be a wash in the decision making.
By the way, your crazy if you base jump
I had no idea they did this at Rock Canyon until I saw it. Crazy. Now I've gotta go, going skiing at the lake
Be there in 30 min.