Image by Fredrik Marmsater.
The American Alpine Club's Mentorship Program—Alpine Track kicked off its first field module in Grand Teton National Park, bringing eight emerging alpine climbers together with coaches Sam Hennessey and Anne Gilbert Chase for eight days of climbing, technical training, and mentorship in the mountains surrounding Jackson, Wyoming.
Made possible through the support of Arc’teryx and Sterling, as well The Mountain Guides for this first module, the program is provided at no cost to participants, giving AAC members the opportunity to develop advanced alpine skills through hands-on instruction, mentorship, and field experience.
“Everyone is bringing a unique perspective to the table,” said Maia Crichlow, a member of the women’s team. “And getting to actualize dreams—really put words to what I want to do and see it reflected in other people around me—has been so special.”
Image by Fredrik Marmsater.
In this inaugural module, participants focused on building a foundation in multipitch climbing, including gear placement, anchor systems, and descent techniques. They also practiced rock rescue on single- and multipitch routes and learned how to plan for overnight climbing.
Alongside technical training, coaches Hennessey and Chase spent significant time building trust and camaraderie with mentees off the wall at the AAC’s Grand Teton Climbers’ Ranch. After all, an important element of alpine climbing is sharing a meal, reviewing a map, or swapping stories at camp.
“Mentorship is so much of the motivation behind why I climb. I find it really energizing,” said Suraj Kushwaha, a member of the men’s team.
With the first module complete, all eight mentees will return for the program’s second field module in December. The group will travel to Bozeman, Montana, and Cody, Wyoming, to put their developing skills into practice on some of the nation’s best ice climbing terrain.
The Alpine Track is designed as a yearlong progression, with four in-person field modules complemented by opportunities to learn from coaches. Through practical coaching, teamwork, and technical field programs, participants are developing the skills and experience needed to plan and execute technical climbs and trips in alpine environments.
The mentorship program is open to AAC members. Through the generous support of its sponsors, the AAC does not charge a fee for participation in the program, and is able to cover participant lodging during all field modules. Learn more about the AAC’s mentorship program and meet the full team of mentees here.
The AAC Mentorship Program is presented by Arc’teryx, supported by Sterling, and The Mountain Guides supported the Jackson module:
