Upward Transitions

Welcome to Upward Transitions Institute, a female owned company that strives to offer meaningful experiences to individuals in the outdoors. We are focused on empowering folks from any background, race, gender identity, and socioeconomic status to accomplish their goals by learning the tools and skills to recreate and achieve personal growth and leadership in the backcountry, while respecting, appreciating, and learning from the land in which we travel.

We are committed to high quality holistic guiding, education, and experiences that yield a greater understanding of ourselves, others, and the natural world.

Core Values

We are passionate about helping individuals connect with nature in unforgettable ways. With a deep understanding of the transformative power of the great outdoors, we strive to create experiences that uplift, inspire, and foster a sense of connection to the natural world.
At Upward Transitions, we believe that the outdoors is more than just a backdrop for adventure; it is a source of personal growth and discovery. Our mission is to guide individuals and groups towards self-discovery, empowerment, and environmental stewardship through immersive outdoor experiences. We offer a wide range of programs and services tailored to meet the unique needs and aspirations of our clients.


Whether you are seeking a thrilling mountaineering expedition, a course to learn the skills to be independent in the mountains, or a soul-reviving retreat in the serene wilderness, Upward Transitions has got you covered. Our team of experienced guides and instructors are not only experts in outdoor skills and technical travel, they are also passionate advocates for fostering a safe and positive environment. Here at UTI, we have something different to offer you from various other outdoor companies - something that goes beyond learning a new skill. We are committed to a holistic approach of guiding and recreating with all of our offerings, considering your mind, body, and spirit.


One of the cornerstones of our approach is decreasing the barriers that many people face when accessing the outdoors. We strive to create a safe learning environment where anyone is welcome, and everyone is treated with kindness and respect. We believe strongly in our women’s programs, which create a space for a vastly underrepresented population of people in the mountains to learn and grow together in an environment that is supportive and encouraging. We also aim to decrease the financial barriers many people face by offering scholarships to those who cannot afford a program. 

Stewardship for our land is a core value. We believe that responsible outdoor practices are crucial for preserving our natural resources for future generations. From minimizing our ecological impact to promoting Leave No Trace principles, sustainability is at the core of everything we do. Through our experiences, we aim to instill a lasting love and respect for the environment in each participant, fostering a sense of stewardship that extends far beyond their time in the wilderness.

At Upward Transitions, we value authenticity, growth, and connection. Our aim is to provide you with an outdoor experience that expands your horizons, challenges your limits, and leaves you with memories to treasure for a lifetime. We invite you to join us on a journey of self-discovery and connection with the world around us. Come, embrace the outdoors, and let Upward Transitions elevate your experiences.