Lucy Westlake (born November 4, 2003) is an American mountaineer from Naperville, Illinois. She is known for her remarkable achievements in mountaineering, including becoming the youngest American woman to climb Mount Everest. Westlake has left an indelible mark on the world of mountaineering and has become an inspiration to many.
Westlake first discovered her passion for climbing in 2011 when she summited Black Mountain, Kentucky’s highest peak. This initial experience ignited a fire within her, and she set out on a journey to conquer some of the highest peaks in the world.
In 2012, at the age of just 9 years old, Westlake achieved an extraordinary feat by climbing 13 US state peaks. She surpassed the previous record set by Kristen Kelliher of Vermont, who was 17 years old when she accomplished this remarkable feat in 2011. This early success only fueled Westlake’s determination to continue pushing her limits and pursuing her dreams.
At the age of 12 years, 8 months, and 18 days, on July 22, 2016, Westlake became the youngest girl to summit all of the highest points of the contiguous United States. Her final ascent took place at Kings Peak in Utah. This incredible achievement solidified her position as a prodigious talent in the world of mountaineering.
Westlake’s thirst for adventure and her unwavering dedication to her craft led her to reach new heights. In June 2021, she became the youngest female to climb all 50 of the US state peaks when she successfully summited Denali in Alaska. At the age of 17 years, 7 months, and 17 days, she shattered the previous record set by Kristen Kelliher in 2012. This momentous accomplishment also allowed Westlake and her father Rodney to claim the title of the youngest father-daughter team to conquer all 50 state peaks.
But Westlake’s ambitions didn’t stop there. Her impressive resume includes conquering other prominent peaks such as Aconcagua, the highest peak in South America, Elbrus, the highest peak in Europe, and Kilimanjaro, the highest peak in Africa. These feats demonstrate her sheer determination and her unwavering spirit to conquer every challenge thrown her way.
On May 12, 2022, at the age of 18 years, 6 months, and 8 days, Westlake etched her name in history by becoming the youngest American woman to reach the summit of Mount Everest. She surpassed the previous record set by Samantha Larson in 2007. Westlake’s climb to the summit of Everest was not only a testament to her physical and mental strength but also a symbol of her unyielding determination.
Throughout her journey, Westlake has inspired countless individuals and has become a role model for young women aspiring to push beyond their limits. Her accomplishments in mountaineering have not only shattered age barriers but have also paved the way for future generations to dream big and reach for the stars.