Upwards Transitions Glacier Peak Summit Scholarship
Imagine yourself on a rope team, moving steadily across a snowy ridge as the sun rises above the North Cascades. Far below, green valleys fade into mist while the ice‑capped summit of Glacier Peak – known as Dakobed by the Sauk‑Suiattle and other Indigenous peoples – towers above. This sacred mountain, one of Washington’s five active volcanoes, translates to “the great parent” or giver of life. Over five days you’ll hike deep into wilderness, learn glacier travel skills and climb a 10,541‑ft volcano, all while building trust and camaraderie with a diverse group of women, trans and femme‑identifying adventurers.
Why Glacier Peak with Upwards Transition Institute?
Glacier Peak is often called the most remote of Washington’s volcanoes. The round‑trip journey covers about 38 miles and nearly 8,000 feet of elevation gain. Much of the route follows established forest trails, but as you venture higher the path becomes rocky and eventually transitions to snow and glacial terrain. Upwards Transitions’ experienced guides will teach you the skills needed to travel safely on a rope team – no prior glacier travel experience is necessary. On a clear summit day, you’ll enjoy panoramic views of Mt. Rainier, Mt. Baker and the entire Cascade Range.
Beyond the physical challenge, this expedition fosters a deep connection with the land. The Upwards Transitions team invites you to reflect on the Indigenous history of Dakobed, practice Leave No Trace travel and redefine success in the mountains as learning, connection and personal growth. You’ll leave feeling stronger, more confident and part of a supportive community of climbers.
This Summit Scholarship includes the expedition fee for Upwards Transitions’ Women+ Glacier Peak Climb, a $500 travel stipend to help offset travel costs, mountaineering footwear from LOWA Boots, high-quality mountaineering attire from Fjällräven, a mountaineering backpack from Deuter, and more.
There are two Glacier Peak Summit Scholarship available. Each scholarship’s total value is >$3,000.
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Embark on a transformative journey to one of the Pacific Northwest’s most remote and majestic volcanoes: Glacier Peak, known as Dakobed, “the great parent,” in Lushootseed.
Glacier Peak stands at 10,541 ft, with views of all the volcanoes in Washington. If you are someone who likes backpacking, this is an amazing way to get your feet wet in the world of mountaineering.
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This trip serves as an introductory experience to glacier mountaineering, catering to individuals in good physical shape without necessarily having previous mountaineering experience (although it never hurts!).
This 4.5 day guided women+ expedition offers an unforgettable adventure into the heart of the Glacier Peak Wilderness, blending physical challenge with spiritual connection to the mountains.
Upon meeting, you will go through all gear with your guides and get to know each other. After spending the night in Darrington, your team will head to the North Fork Sauk River Trail. From there, you will spend the next four days in the backcountry, sharing the trail & mountain with your team and guides while learning mountaineering skills.
Upwards Transitions’ goal is for you to leave feeling more connected to the land, appreciative of the hard work your body has done, and connected with other women in the community.
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July 24-28, 2026
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You don’t need to be an ultra-athlete or worry about being the weakest link. You are not required to have prior mountaineering experience. Prior backpacking experience is highly recommended.
To participate, you should be capable of hiking 4,000 vertical feet with a 45 lb pack.
This is an empowering environment where your comfort and safety are our priorities.
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Included:
Guided ascent with a 3:1 climber‑to‑guide ratio, led by experienced, credentialed women guides.
A $500 travel stipend to help offset your travel costs
Top-notch gear from Summit Scholarship partner brands including LOWA Boots, Fjällräven, Deuter, Nite Ize and others
Group gear including ropes, pickets, tents and cookware
Climbing/camping permits and national forest fees
Hot breakfasts and dinners on the mountain
Not included:
Personal gear not covered by the Summit Scholarship and lunches/snacks
Transportation to/from Darrington, WA
Trip cancellation or medical/evacuation insurance
Guide gratuities
Any trailhead parking fees
Applications for the 2026 Summit Scholarship program are closed.
