A Second Chance at the Summit
Second Summits
AAI’s Second Summits program offers substantial discounts—up to 50%—to give you another opportunity to reach the peak when conditions or circumstances fell short the first time.

AAI’s unique Second Summits program gives you a second chance at a missed summit for a substantial discount (usually 15 – 50%) off the original cost. The program intends to give you another opportunity to climb a peak that you were unsuccessful on previously. Weather, fatigue, and even the common cold can cut short what would have been a successful summit climb. Unique in the international guiding industry, AAI’s Second Summits program can help get you back on the mountain for another shot at the top.
All Programs
Listed below are the trips that are part of the Second Summits program. Each has slightly different limitations and requirements, so be sure to examine the details carefully for the course, ascent, or expedition that you are joining. AAI reserves the right, at its sole discretion, to deny further participation in its programs (Second Summits or any program) to a participant because of issues related to fitness, performance, health, or social interaction that could adversely impact a group. AAI will not accept responsibility of any expenses incurred (including but not limited to transportation expenses) in the event that a program is cancelled. The rules listed below may change without notice. The Second Summits program can be applied to courses within 2 years of your original trip date and all courses are subject to minimum participation requirements.
Denali Expedition – West Buttress (Alaska – 21 days)
If you are unable to summit Denali, you can register for a second expedition for $1000 off the listed price. The normal refund and cancellation policies apply.
Alpinism 1 – Intro (WA Cascades – 6 days)
If you are unable to summit Mt. Baker, you can register for an Intro to Alpinism program (WA Cascades – 6 days) for half-price. In that program, we normally summit Baker on Day #5 or Day #6. Register for any session of this program from May through September with the full 50% payment. The normal refund and cancellation policies apply. As always, programs are subject to minimum participation, so check with us before buying your air ticket (if you are flying to the Cascades) to make sure we have reached that minimum level.
Part 1: Alpine Mountaineering and Technical Leadership (WA Cascades – 12 days)
If you are unable to summit Mt. Baker, you can register for an Intro to Alpinism program (WA Cascades – 6 days) for half-price. In that program, we normally summit Baker on Day #5 or Day #6. Register for any session of this program from May through September with the full 50% payment. The normal refund and cancellation policies apply. As always, programs are subject to minimum participation, so check with us before buying your air ticket (if you are flying to the Cascades) to make sure we have reached that minimum level.
Alpine Ice Climbing (WA Cascades – 6 days)
If you are unable to summit Mt. Baker, your 2nd program is discounted. Register for any Alpine Ice program from May through September for 15% off. The normal refund and cancellation policies apply. As always, programs are subject to minimum participation, so check with us before buying your air ticket (if you are flying to the Cascades) to make sure we have reached that minimum level.
Mt. Baker Skills and Ascent (WA Cascades – 3 days)
If you are unable to summit Mt. Baker, your 2nd program is half-price. Register for any session of this program from May through September with the full 50% payment. The normal refund and cancellation policies apply. As always, programs are subject to minimum participation, so check with us before buying your air ticket (if you are flying to the Cascades) to make sure we have reached that minimum level.
Mt. Shuksan Skills and Ascent – Sulphide Glacier (WA Cascades – 3 days)
If you are unable to summit Mt. Shuksan via the Sulphide Glacier on one of our public group courses, your 2nd program is 40% off. The normal refund and cancellation policies apply. As always, programs are subject to minimum participation, so check with us before buying your air ticket to make sure we have reached that minimum level.
Mt. Whitney Skills and Ascent (CA Sierra – 3 or 4 days)
If you are unable to summit Mt. Whitney, your 2nd program is half-price. Register for any session of this program from May through September with the full 50% payment. The normal refund and cancellation policies apply. As always, programs are subject to minimum participation, so check with us before buying your air ticket (if you are flying to the Sierra) to make sure we have reached that minimum level.
Note: Please call us at (800) 424-2249 for Second Summits information on other programs.