Mountaineer – Like Her

Sarah Doherty

Sarah Doherty (1959-2023) was an amputee mountaineer, ski racer, motivational speaker, and entrepreneur. Despite losing her right leg at the age of 13, Sarah became a trailblazer and icon in the world of adaptive sports. Her accomplishments included becoming an accomplished skier, summiting mountains like Mount Rainier and Mount McKinley, and founding SideStix Ventures Inc., a company focused on creating innovative crutch designs. Sarah’s resilience and determination continue to inspire individuals with disabilities to pursue their dreams.

IndiaMountaineer

Premlata Agrawal

Premlata Agrawal (born 1963) is an Indian mountaineer known for her remarkable achievements in the field of mountaineering. She has successfully scaled the Seven Summits, which are the highest peaks on each of the seven continents. Agrawal’s passion for mountaineering has not only broken boundaries but has also inspired countless individuals around the world.

IndiaMountaineer

Anshu Jamsenpa

Anshu Jamsenpa, the Indian mountaineer, made history by becoming the first woman to summit Mount Everest twice in a season. Her remarkable feat was achieved in record time, completing the double ascent within just 5 days. Born and raised in Bomdila, Arunachal Pradesh, Anshu’s passion for mountaineering and unwavering determination propelled her to conquer new heights, making her an inspiring figure in women’s history. She has been honored with the prestigious Padma Shri award and was recommended for the Tenzing Norgay National Adventure Award.

NepalMountaineer

Lhakpa Sherpa

Lhakpa Sherpa, the Nepalese Sherpa mountain climber, holds the record for the most Mount Everest summits by a woman. Her tenth climb, financed through a crowdfunding campaign, took place on May 12, 2022. Despite being born in a cave and having no formal education, Lhakpa’s determination and love for climbing has made her a trailblazing figure in mountaineering history.

JapanUnited StatesAfrican American

Sophia Danenberg

Sophia Danenberg, the first African American and first black woman to reach the summit of Mount Everest, is a trailblazer in the world of mountaineering. Her remarkable achievement not only established her as a pioneering figure in the mountaineering community but also inspired countless individuals to break barriers and pursue their dreams.

AustriaMountaineer

Gerlinde Kaltenbrunner

Gerlinde Kaltenbrunner (born 13 December 1970) is an Austrian mountaineer known for her remarkable accomplishments in high-altitude mountaineering. She has made history by becoming the second woman to climb all fourteen eight-thousanders, the peaks in the world that are above 8,000 meters (26,247 ft) in elevation. What makes her ascent even more extraordinary is that she achieved this feat without the use of supplementary oxygen or high altitude porters, a stunning display of her skill, determination, and resilience.

IndiaMountaineer

Arunima Sinha

Arunima Sinha, born on July 20, 1988, in Akbarpur, Ambedkar Nagar near Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, is an extraordinary Indian mountaineer and sportswoman. She has achieved remarkable feats in the field of mountaineering, becoming the world’s first female amputee to scale the highest peaks on seven continents. Sinha’s inspiring journey is a testament to her unwavering determination, perseverance, and indomitable spirit.

IndiaMountaineer

Santosh Yadav

Santosh Yadav, the first woman in the world to climb Mount Everest twice and conquer the treacherous Kangshung Face, has solidified her place in mountaineering history. She displayed curiosity and a thirst for adventure from a young age, and her determination and skill led her to achieve extraordinary feats in mountaineering. Yadav’s passion for the environment and dedication to preserving the Himalayas have left a lasting impact, making her an inspiration to aspiring mountaineers, especially women.

United StatesMountaineer

Annie Smith Peck

Annie Smith Peck was an American mountaineer, adventurer, suffragist, and noted speaker. She dedicated her life to breaking barriers and challenging societal norms, becoming a trailblazer in various fields. Peck’s indomitable spirit and relentless pursuit of her passions left an enduring mark on society and paved the way for future generations of women.

United StatesMountaineer

Melissa Arnot

Melissa Arnot Reid (born December 18, 1983) is an American mountaineer known for her accomplishments in climbing some of the world’s tallest mountains. She has climbed to the summit of Mount Everest six times, making her one of the most successful female climbers in history.

United StatesMountaineer

Maureen Beck

Maureen Beck, an American mountaineer, has defied expectations in the world of climbing despite being born without a lower left arm. Her determination and innovative solutions have garnered her widespread recognition and admiration. Beck’s achievements have not only shattered societal limitations but have also inspired countless individuals facing their own challenges, becoming a beacon of hope and empowerment. Her remarkable climbing journey and accomplishments have been showcased in the documentary “Stumped” and earned her the title of National Geographic Adventurer of the Year in 2019.

United StatesMountaineer

Hilaree Nelson

Hilaree Nelson (1972-2022) was an American ski mountaineer known for her extraordinary achievements and fearless spirit. She became a trailblazer in the male-dominated field of ski mountaineering, summiting two 8000-meter peaks in a single 24-hour push. Nelson’s legacy as a fearless and accomplished ski mountaineer will forever inspire generations to come.

SwedenMountaineerRunner

Ida Nilsson

Ida Nilsson, a Swedish long-distance runner and ski mountaineer, has made a name for herself in the world of endurance sports. With her remarkable talent and unwavering dedication, Nilsson has overcome various challenges to become one of the most accomplished athletes in her field. From her early success as a member of a sports-loving family to her triumphant comeback after a series of injuries, Nilsson’s resilience and perseverance have solidified her status as a force to be reckoned with in women’s history.

SwedenMountaineerRunner

Emelie Forsberg

Emelie Tina Forsberg, born in 1986 in Noraström, Sweden, is a highly acclaimed Swedish athlete specializing in trail running and ski mountaineering. Renowned for her incredible strength, endurance, and downhill running, Forsberg has achieved numerous victories in various competitions, including European and World Championships. Her infectious passion for sports and love of life, which she shares daily on social media, has inspired people around the globe. With her unwavering determination and ever-present smile, Forsberg continues to overcome challenges and pave the way for women in sports.

FranceMountaineerRock Climber

Catherine Destivelle

Catherine Destivelle (born 24 July 1960) is a French rock climber and mountaineer who is considered one of the greatest and most important female climbers in the history of the sport. She came to prominence in the mid-1980s for sport climbing by winning the first major female climbing competitions and by being the first-ever female to redpoint a 7c+/8a sport climbing route with Fleur de Rocaille in 1985. In 1988, she achieved another significant milestone by becoming the first female to redpoint an 8a+ (5.13c) route with Choucas. In 1990, she retired from sport climbing to focus on alpine climbing and made history as the first-ever female alpine ascent of the Bonatti Pillar on the Petit Dru. She continued to break new ground in mountaineering, completing daring solo climbs and conquering challenging peaks in the Himalayas and Antarctica. Destivelle’s outstanding accomplishments have earned her numerous awards and recognition, including the Knight of the Legion of Honour and the Piolet d’Or Lifetime Achievement Award. Her story and achievements inspire climbers and outdoor enthusiasts worldwide.

AustraliaDoctorMountaineer

Nikki Bart

Nikki Bart, a renowned Australian mountain climber and medical doctor, made history by becoming the first mother-daughter duo to conquer Mount Everest. She also successfully completed the Seven Summits challenge. Nikki’s achievements in mountaineering parallel her dedication to medicine, where she specializes in cardiology. Her passion for exploration and pursuit of new challenges continue as she aspires to complete the Explorers Grand Slam challenge. Nikki Bart’s remarkable accomplishments and unwavering pursuit of excellence make her an inspiring figure in society.

AustraliaExplorerMountaineer

Marie Byles

Marie Beuzeville Byles was a prominent Australian conservationist, pacifist, mountaineer, and pioneer female solicitor. She was an original member of the Buddhist Society in New South Wales and made significant contributions to the development and spread of Buddhism in the region. With her dedication to preserving the natural world, commitment to social justice, and fearless pursuit of her passions, Byles has left an enduring legacy in Australian society.

United StatesAfrican AmericanMountaineer

Rosemary Saal

Rosemary Saal is an American mountaineer who has made significant contributions to the field of outdoor exploration. She shattered stereotypes and paved the way for future climbers of color by becoming a member of the first all African American climbing team to summit Denali in 2013 and part of the first all-Black U.S. expedition team to successfully reach the summit of Mount Everest in 2022. Saal’s resilience, strength, and determination have made her a trailblazer in the world of mountaineering while advocating for diversity and inclusion in the outdoor community.

United StatesMountaineer

Lucy Westlake

Lucy Westlake, born in 2003, is an American mountaineer from Naperville, Illinois. She is widely recognized for her remarkable achievements in mountaineering, including becoming the youngest American woman to climb Mount Everest. Westlake’s unwavering determination and passion for climbing have inspired countless individuals and shattered age barriers in the world of mountaineering.

United Arab EmiratesMountaineer

Mawj Aldarraji

Mawj Aldarraji is an Iraqi mountaineer and architect, known as the first female mountaineer from Iraq. Overcoming medical challenges, she has conquered several mountains as part of the seven summits challenge. Aldarraji’s determination and advocacy for female empowerment have made her a symbol of resilience and courage. Her ultimate goal is to become the first-ever Iraqi national to summit Mount Everest, inspiring others to pursue their dreams fearlessly.

United StatesMountaineerWriter

Fanny Bullock Workman

Fanny Bullock Workman was a pioneering American geographer, cartographer, explorer, travel writer, and mountaineer. She broke gender barriers by embarking on expeditions to the Himalayas and setting altitude records for women. Alongside her husband, she authored travel books and became an advocate for women’s rights and suffrage. She received numerous medals of honor from European climbing and geographical societies, solidifying her status as a leading climber of her time.

BangladeshActivistMountaineer

Wasfia Nazreen

Wasfia Nazreen (born 1982) is a Bangladeshi mountaineer, activist, environmentalist, social worker, and writer. She is widely known as the first Bangladeshi and first Bengali to complete the Seven Summits on 18 November 2015, marking a significant milestone in both her personal achievements and for her country.

United StatesMountaineer

Miriam O’Brien Underhill

Miriam O’Brien Underhill was an American mountaineer, environmentalist, and feminist, known for organizing all-women’s ascents of challenging climbs in the Alps. She achieved various significant first ascents and broke down barriers for women in the male-dominated world of mountaineering. Miriam’s accomplishments, determination, and trailblazing spirit continue to inspire climbers and feminists today.

NorwayMountaineer

Therese Bertheau

Therese Bertheau (1861-1936) was a pioneering Norwegian mountaineer who introduced trousers as everyday clothing for women. She climbed over 30 peaks and achieved numerous first ascents, including conquering Store Skagastølstind in 1894. Bertheau also made significant contributions to women’s participation in outdoor activities and broke barriers by becoming the first woman elected to the Norwegian Tourist Association Board in 1902. Her advocacy for women’s rights extended beyond mountaineering, as she embraced trousers and inspired women to challenge societal expectations. Bertheau’s courage and determination continue to inspire women around the world.

United StatesDoctorMountaineer

Cora Smith Eaton

Cora Eliza Smith Eaton King was an American suffragist, physician, and mountaineer. She became the first woman in North Dakota to be licensed as a physician. Cora was deeply involved in the suffrage movement and played a significant role in advocating for women’s right to vote. She also made groundbreaking contributions to the medical field as a licensed physician and specialized in female circumcisions. Additionally, she was a founding member of The Mountaineers, an organization dedicated to outdoor activities and conservation.

FranceMountaineer

Henriette d’Angeville

Henriette d’Angeville, born in 1794, fulfilled her dream of climbing Mont Blanc in 1838, becoming only the second woman to do so. She continued her passion for mountaineering, conquering twenty-one more peaks across the Alps in the next twenty-five years. Henriette’s legacy extends beyond her mountaineering achievements; her determination and pioneering spirit continue to inspire adventurers to this day.

United StatesMountaineer

Julia Archibald Holmes

Julia Annie Archibald Holmes was an American suffragist, abolitionist, mountaineer, and journalist. She became the first woman to reach the summit of Pikes Peak in 1858, defying societal expectations and challenging gender roles. Her determination and commitment to social justice and equality made her a pivotal figure in the women’s suffrage movement. Julia’s legacy continues to inspire and remind us of the extraordinary achievements that can be accomplished through perseverance and a steadfast belief in justice.

NepalMountaineer

Pasang Lhamu Sherpa Akita

Pasang Lhamu Sherpa Akita is a renowned Nepali mountaineer known for her significant contributions to the world of mountaineering and her active role in earthquake relief efforts in Nepal. She has broken barriers and inspired women worldwide, making her a true role model for aspiring climbers.

ArgentinaAnthropologistMountaineer

Constanza Ceruti

María Constanza Ceruti, born in 1973 in Buenos Aires, Argentina, is an anthropologist and mountaineer who has made significant contributions to the field of anthropology and high-altitude archaeology. She has explored the Inca ceremonial centers on Andean peaks above 6,000 meters and has discovered the Children of Llullaillaco, the best-preserved mummies in the world. Ceruti’s research on sacred mountains worldwide has shed light on their religious and cultural significance. Her pioneering work has expanded our understanding of ancient civilizations and their relationship with mountainous landscapes.

IndiaMountaineer

Malavath Purna

Malavath Purna, born on June 10, 2000, became the youngest Indian and youngest female to successfully conquer Mount Everest at the age of 13 years and 11 months. Through her determination and resilience, she shattered barriers and became an inspiration for young girls across India. Her remarkable achievements continue to inspire generations to come.

IndiaMountaineer

Shivangi Pathak

Shivangi Pathak, born in Hisar, Haryana in 2002, is an Indian mountaineer who achieved a remarkable feat at a young age. She became the youngest person from India to climb Mount Everest in May 2018. Her passion for adventure and determination to overcome challenges led her to conquer Mount Everest, Mount Elbrus, and Mount Kilimanjaro. Pathak’s achievements have inspired many and earned her recognition, including the Bal Shakti Puraskar in 2019. She is a symbol of empowerment and resilience, breaking barriers and proving that age and gender should never limit one’s ambitions.

IndiaMountaineer

Sangeeta Sindhi Bahl

Sangeeta Sindhi Bahl, born in Jammu in 1965, made history as the oldest Indian woman to conquer Mount Everest in 2018. Along her journey, she also scaled other impressive peaks, including Kilimanjaro, Elbrus, Vinson, and Aconcagua. Her achievements in mountaineering have shattered barriers and inspired future generations of women.

IndiaMountaineer

Tashi and Nungshi Malik

Tashi and Nungshi Malik, born in 1991, are renowned mountaineers who have achieved remarkable feats. They are the first twins to reach the summit of the Seven Summits, conquer the North and South Poles, and complete the Adventurers Grand Slam and Three Poles Challenge. Their achievements have inspired countless individuals to pursue their own dreams and push their limits.

ItalyMountaineerSkier

Paula Wiesinger

Paula (Paola) Rosa Wiesinger, a pioneering Italian alpine skier and mountain climber, left an indelible mark on the world of winter sports. She became one of the most successful and influential female athletes of her time, winning the women’s Downhill world championship in 1932 and representing Italy in the 1936 Winter Olympics. Her audacious act of disguising herself as a male athlete in a ski mountaineering race challenged gender norms and inspired many. Despite her untimely death, her courageous spirit and accomplishments continue to be honored and celebrated.

United StatesMountaineerScholar

Dolores LaChapelle

Dolores LaChapelle was a pioneering American mountaineer, skier, T’ai chi teacher, and leader in the Deep ecology movement. She achieved notable feats in her mountaineering career, including the first ski ascent of Mount Columbia and Snow Dome. Dolores also made significant contributions as a T’ai chi teacher and was known for her extensive research and writings. Her life’s work found a lasting home at the Aspen Center for Environmental Studies, ensuring the preservation of her wisdom and knowledge.

United StatesMountaineerSkier

Kit DesLauriers

Kit DesLauriers (born 1969) is an American ski-mountaineer who has cemented her place in history as the first person to ski down the Seven Summits. Her remarkable ski-mountaineering feats have earned her widespread recognition and admiration, making her a true pioneer in the field. DesLauriers’ determination and passion for adventure have not only pushed the boundaries of what is possible in the world of skiing but have also paved the way for future generations of female athletes.

FranceJournalistMountaineer

Marie Marvingt

Marie Marvingt was a remarkable French athlete, mountaineer, aviator, and journalist who made significant contributions in various fields during her lifetime. Known for her relentless pursuit of excellence, Marvingt achieved great success and broke down barriers in multiple sports and professions.

QatarMountaineer

Asma Al Thani

Sheikha Asma Al Thani is a Qatari mountaineer who has achieved remarkable feats in the world of mountaineering. She became the first Qatari woman to summit Mount Everest, Mount Lhotse, Manaslu, Ama Dablam, and ski to the North Pole. She is known for her determination, resilience, and breaking barriers, inspiring women and girls in Qatar and worldwide.

Great BritainCyclistDisabled

Karen Darke

Karen Darke, MBE, FRSGS, is a remarkable British Paralympic cyclist, paratriathlete, adventurer, and author. Born on June 25, 1971, in Halifax, Yorkshire, she has defied all odds and become an inspiration to many.

New ZealandMountaineer

Lydia Bradey

Lydia Pounamu Bradey ONZM is a New Zealand mountaineer who made history in 1988 by becoming the first woman to summit Mount Everest without supplemental oxygen. She has since gone on to summit the mountain five more times.

PalestineMountaineer

Suzanne Al Houby

Suzanne Al Houby, a Palestinian mountain climber, is widely recognized as a pioneer in the world of mountaineering. Born and raised in Jaffa, Palestine, Suzanne’s love for adventure and exploration led her to become the first Arab woman to conquer Mount Everest on May 21, 2011. This remarkable achievement not only solidified her place in mountaineering history but also paved the way for other Arab women to pursue their dreams of conquering the world’s highest peaks.

ChinaMountaineer

Phanthog

Phanthog, a Tibetan mountaineer, made history with her remarkable achievements on Mount Everest. Born into a serf family in rural Tibet, her life was marked by hardships. She became the first Chinese woman to conquer Everest, ascending via the treacherous North Face route. Phanthog’s dedication to mountaineering and advancing scientific understanding was evident during her ascent, despite losing three toes to frostbite. Her legacy as a pioneering and inspirational figure lives on.

United StatesAviationExplorer

Vanessa O’Brien

Vanessa Audi Rhys O’Brien (born 2 December 1964) is a British and American mountaineer, sub-orbital spaceflight participant, explorer, author, and former business executive. She has achieved numerous groundbreaking feats in her adventurous career, leaving an indelible mark on society and women’s history. On 4 August 2022, O’Brien made history by becoming the first woman to complete the Explorers’ Extreme Trifecta. This remarkable achievement involved pushing the limits on land, sea, and air when she crossed the Kármán line during the Blue Origin NS-22 spaceflight. Her daring journey to the edges of space solidified her position as a true explorer and inspiration to many.