LOWA and Summit Scholarship Foundation Partner for Matterhorn Adventure 2026
Athletes around the world dream of scaling the iconic Matterhorn. But for many women mountaineers, the financial and structural barriers that stand between them and the famous peak can also feel 14,000 feet tall. For those able to overcome or avoid harassment and pay inequality, they still must contend with gear designed for men’s bodies and doubts about their abilities.
That’s why we’re teaming up with The Summit Scholarship Foundation in 2026 for the LOWA Matterhorn Adventure. This 5-day guided adventure includes a day of climbing in Zermatt, Switzerland and a two-day summit of the iconic Matterhorn with LOWA Pro Athletes, Ines Papert and Sunny Stroeer. Additionally, the two recipients will receive a $1,000 travel stipend, women-specific mountaineering footwear from LOWA, mountain attire from Fjällräven, a mountaineering backpack from Deuter, trekking poles from LEKI, and more.
Applications for the adventure open on December 15 through January 31 and are open to female athletes around the world. Applicants must be 18 or older and have prior technical climbing experience and be comfortable climbing up to 5.7 in mountain boots, 50-degree snow and ice.
If you or someone you know qualify for this opportunity, don’t miss your chance! Click the link below to submit your application. The process is simple and only requires a few demographic and essay questions. The winners will be announced in March 2026 with the expedition launching in August 2026.
The Summit Scholarship Foundation’s mission is to promote gender equity in mountain sports and bring awareness to the issues women athletes face in the outdoors. Along with the LOWA Matterhorn Adventure, the Summit Scholarship is also offering the chance for aspiring mountaineers to join expeditions to Mount Baker and Cordillera Blanca. Applicants are welcome to apply to multiple programs.
Learn more about the application process and requirements on the Summit Scholarship Foundation’s website:
