LGBTQ+ Climbing and Mountaineering Programs

Overview

AAI is proud to offer a variety of Queer climbing and mountaineering programs, including LGBTQ+ rock climbing clinics, mountaineering courses, and guided summit climbs. LGBTQ+ affinity courses offer a powerful opportunity for people to build mountain skills with other folks in their communities. Our LGBTQ+ trips are led by our highly trained and experienced Queer guides, providing climbers the opportunity to not only learn alongside other Queer people, but to learn directly from Queer instructors and mentors.

Our LGBTQ+ courses lend themselves to a supportive, cooperative learning environment in which everyone is welcome to participate. Like all AAI courses, students develop technical skills that will prepare them for their next objective, whether that's leading a multi-pitch rock climb, joining a group of friends for a climb of Mt. Rainier, or tackling Denali's West Buttress. The LGBTQ+ version of these courses covers all the same technical skills and techniques as the standard courses; we go to the same venues, and climb the same peaks. The only difference is that they are for exclusively LGBTQ+ participants and facilitated by LGBTQ+ instructors.

Why Join an LGBTQ+ Affinity Climb?

We all know that climbing and mountaineering can be a cis, male, as well as het, dominant space. Many of our attitudes toward the sport come from the idea of “conquering” the mountain. This program is for Queer Folks who want to develop technical skills in a space that is not only safe but empowering. A space where pronouns are respected, expression is encouraged, and our connection to the mountains and the world around us is based in the Queerness of all space! Join us in our effort to create community in a space which can feel isolating, while also being the truest to ourselves and our identities. 

If you have interest in booking a private LGBTQ+ beyond what's offered here, contact the AAI Office for more information: 360-671-1505. We offer programs throughout the year in six states and several countries.

Inspiring Queer Mountaineers 

“Climbing made my body feel like a safer place, and kind of taught me to take care of it.””

- Lor Sabourin (they/them)

Jamie Logan (she/her) is an accomplished alpinist and trans-woman. In the 1970’s she and her longtime climbing partner made the first free ascent of the Diamond of Longs Peak in Colorado and Emperor Face of Mt. Robson in the Canadian Rockies.  

(@jamielogan940)

Lor Sabourin (they/them) was the first out non-binary climber to send 5.14a. 

(@lor_sabourin)

Samuel Crossley is a queer photographer and filmmaker. He has shot some of the most widespread incredible ascents such as scenes from “Free Solo” and Amity Warme’s climb of “The Book of Hate”. 

(@samuelcrossley)

Madeleine Sorkin (she/they) isa professional American rock climber and and the director of the Climbing Grief Fund, an American Alpine Club initiative that focuses on the conversation around grief and trauma in the climbing + outdoors communities, connecting individuals to mental health resources.

@madeleinesorkin

Pattie Gonia (she/her) was created by Wyn Wiley (he/him). Pattie has become swiftly known as the “first backpacking drag queen” and works hard to increase representation and support for queer people in the outdoors as well as use her platform for environmental advocacy. 

(@pattiegonia)

Interesting Reads, Resources, and Orgs

We recommend the following books and articles related to Queer Representation in climbing and mountaineering. 

 

LGBTQ+ Climbing and Mountaineering Programs

Mountaineering

Take your skills to the mountains with a team of LGBTQ+ climbers, and summit a 10,000+ ft. peak!

We invite you to review the following LGBTQ+ mountaineering programs. Our staff can help you in determining which course would be the best fit, considering your goals and background.  Go to the links below to see dates for select LGBTQ+ courses.

Mt. Baker Skills and Climb (3 days - Mt. Baker, WA)

This program is for novice climbers who have limited time but would like to experience the thrill of climbing immense glaciers to the summit of one the alpine giants of North America. Mt. Baker's 10,781-foot summit is the highest point in northern Washington and offers commanding views of Vancouver, the San Juans, and the North Cascades.

Alpinism 1 - Introduction to Mountaineering (6 days - Mt. Baker, WA)

This course provides a general introduction to the sport of mountain climbing, including one day of rock climbing and five-days on Mt. Baker for a thorough introduction to glacier travel, crevasse rescue, self-arrest, and movement on snow and ice. The course culminates with a climb of Mt. Baker.

Dates may be found on individual program pages.

Our LGBTQ+ mountaineering courses are offered on specific dates by location. Please visit the course page for details on public trips, or contact the AAI Office to arrange a custom or private course: 360-671-1505.

LGBTQ+ Climbing and Mountaineering Programs

Rock Climbing

Our LGBTQ+ rock climbing courses offer the opportunity to learn or improve your climbing techniques in a spectacular outdoor environment with like-minded women, taught by LGBTQ+ instructors.

Check out the following courses, and contact us if you have any questions about what program would be the best fit for your climbing skills and experience. Go to the links below to see dates for select LGBTQ+ courses.

Outdoor Rock Climbing - Intensive Intro (4 days – Washington, British Columbia, Nevada, Utah, Colorado, and California)

A four-day intensive course that provides beginners and indoor climbers with a foundation in outdoor climbing techniques and the principles of rock climbing technical systems. By the end of the program, climbers will be able to belay, rappel, and set-up their own single-pitch top-rope systems to enable them to climb independently.

Learn to Lead - Traditional Rock Climbing Leadership (4 days – Washington, British Columbia, Nevada, Utah, Colorado, and California)

The objective of the Learn to Lead program is to introduce climbers to the techniques required for leading single and multi-pitch traditional rock routes, while advancing technical and movement skills.

Dates may be found on individual program pages.

Our LGBTQ+ rock climbing courses are offered on specific dates by location. Please visit the course page for details on public trips, or contact the AAI Office to arrange a custom or private course: 360-671-1505. 

LGBTQ+ Climbing and Mountaineering Programs

Related Courses

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