Mountain Climbing
Reach New Heights
Join us on the mountain to discover strength, confidence, and connection as we train and climb together. Our climb season begins in early spring, with regular training hikes and preparation designed to build strength, skills, and confidence for summit day.
For decades, we’ve been guiding women who have faced cancer to the summits of Pacific Northwest peaks—helping them discover new strength, confidence, and community along the way.
Why Climb
Climbing with Team Survivor offers more than a physical challenge. It’s an opportunity to build skills, form lasting friendships, and experience the power of teamwork in the beauty of the outdoors. With the guidance of experienced climb leaders, members participate in training hikes, receive gear support, and gain the encouragement needed to reach the summit together. Standing on a mountain peak with Team Survivor Northwest is an unforgettable experience—made even more meaningful by knowing you’ve helped open the door for others to follow.
What to Expect
Training begins in early Spring, with weekly hikes typically alternating Saturdays and Sundays.
Participants must complete at least 8 training hikes (a minimum of two per month), including at least two challenging late-season hikes. Training together builds camaraderie and confidence while allowing leaders to assess pace and skills to ensure a safe and successful climb day.
Training hikes are only one part of training. We prepare thoroughly by doing other exercises during the week in addition to weekly training hikes.
The schedule is designed to prepare climbers both physically and mentally for the summit.
Climb and Give Back
As part of the Mountain Climb, each climber raises funds that directly support Team Survivor programs for other women facing and recovering from cancer. Every dollar raised helps more survivors regain strength, confidence, and community.
The climb is both a meaningful personal challenge and an important fundraiser that makes our programs possible. After everything you have been through, reaching a mountain summit is a powerful way to celebrate your resilience and reclaim your strength. Sharing your journey invites friends and family to support you—and to be part of something truly inspiring. Learn more about the Mountain Climb Fundraiser here.
The Climb
The mountain and route differs year to year. Interested participants can expect to cover at least 4,500 ft. of elevation gain over a ~10 mile round trip.
Past climbs have included:
- Mount St. Helens
- Camp Muir on Mount Rainier
- Ruth Mountain
For detailed information about what the climb program can look like (including training schedules and hike locations), view the Mount St. Helens Information Packet from the 2026 program.
- No prior hiking experience is required, but participants should be regularly active. Training hikes start at an intermediate level, and groups are adjusted for pace when needed. Those unable to sustain moderate exercise for about an hour should consider other Team Survivor programs.
- Training hikes are weekly on the weekends. Participants must join at least two hikes per month to build fitness and teamwork. Additional independent practice or other Team Survivor hikes is encouraged.
- Training hikes are local for logistical and volunteer support, though participants may also train elsewhere if minimum group hike requirements are met.
- Early morning starts are standard to mimic actual mountain conditions and ensure safety.
- Training hike details are posted in the Program Calendar and emailed a few days before each hike. RSVP is required.
- Independent training is allowed, but group hikes provide guidance, pace awareness, and camaraderie that support climb preparation.
- If you need to withdraw, notify us as early as possible so waitlisted participants can join. Even if you leave the program, you will benefit from exercise and friendships built during training.
- You will never hike alone. If you must turn back during a climb, someone will accompany you or stay with you safely.
- Teams typically include around 20 climbers, program leaders, and volunteer hike leaders. Training hikes offer opportunities to learn from volunteers and fellow climbers.
- Fundraising is an important part of the Mountain Climb experience. Team Survivor will create a personal fundraising page for you, making it easy to share your story, invite donations, track progress, and receive messages from supporters. We recommend setting an initial goal of $1,000–$1,500 to help cover program costs and support Team Survivor programs. Many climbers are surprised by how quickly they reach—and often exceed—their goal.
- Mountain climbing gear varies depending on the final climb. Detailed guidance and a full packing list will be provided throughout the training season.
- Good waterproof hiking boots—the most important item to get early so you can break them in during training hikes
- A mid-weight daypack (about 25–30 liters) to carry the 10 Essentials and general supplies
- Waterproof gloves and layered hiking clothing to protect you from sun, rain, wind, and cold
- Hiking poles are optional but highly recommended. Collapsible poles are best so they can be stowed when not in use
- Training hikes are a great way to learn what works best—participants share tips and ideas, and gear will be reviewed multiple times as the season progresses
Team Survivor offers need-based scholarships for basic equipment you need to be able to participate in our programs. Apply for supporthere. Team Survivor also has a small library of loaner equipment, and many items can be shared or borrowed.
Registration
The 2026 Mountain Climb Program is over. Registration for the 2027 program will open in early 2027. Check back in then for more information.
New to Team Survivor?
Membership is free.