Photo: Luke Jones / Wikimedia Commons — CC BY 2.0
An Elevated Life Initiative
One Mountain. One Year. One Purpose.
August 20, 2027 · Pioneer Peak South Summit · Palmer, Alaska
Climb starts 7:00 AM Alaska time
One year. One mountain. One challenge. Alicia and Jeff are climbing Pioneer Peak on August 20, 2027 — and you’re invited to join them.
Pioneer 60 is Friday, August 20, 2027 — loading countdown…
4 people have joined Pioneer 60 so far
Facebook RSVP is just for visibility — be sure to join above to be on our official Pioneer 60 list.
There is no Pioneer 60 fee required to participate in the climb.
The Challenge
Pioneer 60 isn’t one climb on August 20, 2027. The climb starts now. Whether you’re training with us from across the country, joining us on the trail, or just here to follow along, you’re part of it.
“A switchback can make it look like you’re walking away from the summit. But you’re still gaining elevation.”
Ways to Be Part of It
South Summit Climber
Join Jeff and Alicia on the climb itself.
Partial Hike / Trail Participant
Hike part of the route — no obligation to summit.
Training With Us
Follow the year-long training plan, wherever you live.
Support Team
Help on the ground before, during, or after the climb.
Finish Celebration Guest
Join the dinner — climbing not required.
Sponsor / Partner
Support Pioneer 60 as a business or organization.
Palmer, Alaska — Current Conditions
54°
Light Rain · Feels 54°
H 42° / L 42°
Wind 6 mph, gust 7
Precip 43%
Explore Pioneer 60
Our Story
Jeff turns 60 on August 20, 2027. The last six years brought major health challenges — and Alicia has walked every step of that journey beside him. This climb isn't about proving anything. It's about intentionally continuing to move forward.
The Mountain
Pioneer Peak's South Summit, via the Austin Helmers / Pioneer Ridge route above Palmer, Alaska. A serious, strenuous Alaska mountain hike with scrambling — not a technical climbing objective.
What to Expect
Long day, real elevation gain, loose rock, exposure, and weather that can change fast. The South Summit is the goal — a safe return is the requirement.
Training & Preparation
A year-long, milestone-based path to being ready — for the climb itself, or for whatever mountain you're facing.
Purpose & Partners
Pioneer 60 is intended to become bigger than one birthday and one mountain. Over the coming year we'll explore how to strengthen community and make an impact beyond the climb itself.