The American Alpine Club is a 501(c)(3) charitable organization. Our mission is to provide climbers with resources that advance knowledge and inspire all while advocating for the places we all love. Help us advance our mission by donating or becoming a member today.
Help us make a larger impact with your support.
Together, we:
The American Alpine Club made a real, measurable impact on the climbing community in 2025.
Supported thousands of climbers with $87,000 in climbing and expedition grants, including securing double the funding for our Climbing Grief Fund
Welcomed over 19,900 climbers from around the world to our lodging facilities—all while investing in major upgrades across each location
Advocated for and supported the passage of the EXPLORE Act to prioritize climbing access and outdoor recreation opportunities on America’s public lands
Preserved the culture and knowledge of climbing through our Library and Archives, including supporting over 112 research projects
Reached over 6 million climbers who viewed our new Prescription Videos, and delivered copies of our world-renowned publications, Accidents in North American Climbing and the American Alpine Journal to our members—offering 90 in-depth accident reports and analysis, and 249 inspiring stories from the cutting edge of our sport
These numbers tell one part of the story—but the real impact comes through in the voices of our members. Explore the 2025 Impact Report to read firsthand how your support is changing lives and shaping the future of climbing.
Every one of these wins reflects your belief in the power of this community and your commitment to the AAC. Your generosity is what makes the AAC not just an organization—but a movement built by climbers, for climbers.
As we prepare for 2026, your continued support will keep this momentum going. Your year-end gift will help fuel the programs that climbers count on.
Ben Gabriel
Executive Director
P.S. Make your gift by December 31 to help us launch 2026 strong—and continue delivering for climbers across the country.
A Snapshot of Our Impact
“Cute rustic cabins at an affordable price. You walk right outside your cabin and BOOM you are struck by some of the most breathtaking mountains. Along with free showers, bikes, and helpful caring staff. It’s just what you need to have an epic adventure in Grand Teton National Park.”
“The American Alpine Club has been a cornerstone partner in Outdoor Alliance’s work to defend public lands. This year, the AAC helped mobilize climbers nationwide to stop public land sell-offs and stand up for protections for national forests and other public lands with outstanding climbing resources. ”
“The AAJ is the most important climbing media in the world. It’s the only publication that report exhaustively and expertly on the most significant climbs worldwide, free from commercial bias. For these reasons, the AAJ is a cherished resource—not only for learning about cutting-edge accomplishments, but also the world’s best historical record or significant climbs. ”
“Kudos to the AAC for your decades of work educating climbers about safety. Your publication Accidents in North American Climbing was my bible as a climber. ”
“This grant kickstarted my therapy journey after my husband passed away and I was nervous about being able to afford the kind of therapist I needed.”
“I have been lucky enough to receive nearly every grant you can get from the AAC. These funds have not only allowed me to go on incredible climbing expeditions, but have steered me to become a first ascensionist, aviator, AAJ contributor, and have helped me heal from grief. They have even been a partner in my photography career.””
“I signed my spouse and I up for an AAC membership years ago in part for the medical benefit, thinking it was sensible but that we would never use it. In the summer of 2025, my spouse took a fall and needed emergency care. The process was straightforward. I’d recommend anyone who spends time outdoors to consider an AAC membership and [I] will be a member for life.”
“The American Alpine Club’s Library is a world-class resource—as I have found researching the histories of women who pioneered as mountaineers. The Library’s knowledgeable staff and access to its vast collection reward researchers seeking primary resources. ”