Have you ever imagined the feeling of tying into a rope, placing your trust in a partner who’s got your back, as you are approaching the implausibility of a vertical rock face, your movements guided by focus and determination? Picture yourself surrounded by nature’s beauty, the sound of encouragement from a group of amazing women echoing around you as you push beyond what you thought was possible. Whether you’ve never touched a climbing hold before or have only dabbled in climbing, this is your chance to experience the exhilaration, trust, and connection that rock climbing brings in one of the most breathtaking settings in the country.
For the first time in 2025, the Summit Scholarship Foundation is partnering with She Moves Mountains to offer a fully funded spot at their Red River Gorge Climbing Retreat—an experience created for women who are curious, courageous, and ready to try something completely new or deepen their climbing experience.
What is the She Moves Mountains Red River Gorge Climbing Retreat?
This retreat is all about connection, growth, and adventure. Set against the stunning backdrop of the Red River Gorge, you’ll have the chance to learn rock climbing basics—or build on what you already know—in a relaxed and supportive environment.
Here’s what makes this retreat special:
You’ll be surrounded by women of all levels, from total beginners to those who’ve climbed a little before. Everyone is welcome.
You’ll have access to experienced instructors who are there to guide you, answer your questions, and help you feel confident on the rock.
You’ll connect with an incredible community, sharing stories, encouragement, and laughter along the way.
This retreat isn’t about being the strongest or the most skilled —it’s about showing up, trying something new, and discovering what’s possible.
She Moves Mountains Climbing Retreat Summit Scholarship
This Summit Scholarship includes the retreat fee for an all-women 3-day instructional climbing retreat in the Red River Gorge led by She Moves Mountains, a $500 travel stipend to help offset the cost of travel to/from Kentucky, climbing shoes from LOWA Boots, high-quality active attire from Fjällräven, and more. The scholarship’s total value is >$2,500.
-
Situated in the heart of Kentucky and boasting a vast network of routes, the Red River Gorge is the premier climbing destination east of the Mississippi. Covering a large area of national forest and private land, the sandstone cliffs of the the Red River Gorge provide endless climbing possibilities for enthusiasts of all skill levels.
-
Guided climbing and instruction are available for climbers of all skill levels, from first-time beginners to intermediate and advanced climbers. In order to make sure everyone gets exactly what they need, we will have three guides who will take small climbing groups out to focus on Intro instruction designed for those who have never climbed before, Intermediate instruction for climbers wanting to climb in the 5.5-5.9 range (best for those who have some experience, but perhaps have never climbed outside), and Advanced for climbers wanting to join our guides on more difficult routes.
-
October 16-19, 2025
-
No prior climbing experience is required. Participants must be in good physical condition, with the ability to hike three miles over varied terrain while carrying a 15 lb backpack. You also need to be able to do 20 squats, and be 18 years of age or older at the time of travel.
-
Included:
A $500 travel stipend to help you get to/from the retreat
Top-notch gear from Summit Scholarship partner brands including LOWA Boots, Fjällräven, Nite Ize and others
All rock climbing gear
Three days of guided climbing
All meals, including Friday breakfast through Sunday lunch, and Thursday night snacks
3 nights of lodging (shared bunk room)
Not Included:
Trip protection. We will host this retreat rain or shine. If the weather is poor we will propose alternative activities such as technical skills lessons (anchor building, self-rescue, multi-pitch) or hiking. While we can't predict the weather, we have chosen these dates because they present us the driest weather without being too hot.
Gratuities to guides. She Moves Mountains recommends budgeting ~$250 total gratuity depending on your experience
