Utah Woman ‘Everesting’ To Raise Money For Clean Air

BRIGHTON, Utah – Monday is International Women’s Day and one Utah woman is skiing to make a difference for the climate and Utah’s clean energy.

Caroline Gleich is “Everesting” at Brighton Ski Resort, which means she skis and climbs repeatedly up the Great Western side of the resort until she hits the total elevation of Mt. Everest.

“I’m feeling good,” said Gleich 15 hours in. She’s been at it since 6:30 Sunday evening, stopping briefly to hydrate and refuel.

“I’ve climbed up and skied down almost 20,000 vertical feet” as of 8:45 a.m. Monday, she said.

The end goal is to have climbed and skied the equivalent of Mt. Everest, a goal she and her husband Rob Lea conquered in 2019.

“So 29,031 feet, and she is hoping to do it in 24 hours,” said Lea.

Gleich tells KSL the experience has been a rollercoaster ride.

“There’s waves of fatigue, but I’ve had friends come through the whole time, and family, and so the camaraderie and shared skill has kept me going,” said Gleich.

However, the purpose has been her biggest motivator.

“I’m doing this for Protect our Winters, Crush it 4 Climate challenge and also for the Running Up For Air,” she said. “I’m doing it as a fundraiser for Utah Clean Energy.”

The goal is to raise $5,000, money that will help with policies, education and awareness for clean energy.

As of Monday at noon, that goal was met and exceeded.

“As a skier, snow is what drives me,” Gleich said. “It’s my absolute passion. I love winter. Seeing the decrease in the length of this ski season, it has me pretty heartbroken.”

To top it off, it is a fitting act on International Women’s Day as she works to make a difference.

 “I’m super proud,” said Lea.

For more information visit givesignup.org/carolinegleich.