Climbing a mountain is an already intimidating challenge, especially with a $1 million prize at stake.

The new reality competition show “The Summit” puts a group of strangers on a journey together to conquer Mount Head in New Zealand’s Southern Alps if they want to win the cash prize. However, not everyone will reach the top.

As they trek, the contestants will carry the $1 million prize money split among them, aiming to hit various checkpoint camps where they will vote someone out. They will encounter obstacles and tough choices presented by a character known as “The Mountain Keeper.”

If the team fails to achieve the summit in 14 days, everyone leaves empty-handed.

Catch a glimpse of the contestants learning their challenges on ‘The Summit’

Contestants shocked by their real mission

The show’s first five minutes, shared exclusively with YSL News, showcase the contestants discovering the reality of what they have signed up for. The group of 16 eager adventurers is taken by surprise when informed of the true nature of their challenge.

Host Manu Bennett tells the inexperienced climbers they have two weeks to reach the summit, which brings shocked expressions from everyone.

“Everyone has their own reason for being here, and those reasons will motivate you to push up that mountain,” Bennett remarks.

Amy Stephens, a bank manager from South Carolina, becomes emotional as she expresses her desire to demonstrate her capabilities to her family.

Bennett introduces the $1 million cash prize and unexpected twists

Bennett then presents a black duffle bag labeled “motivation,” which Stephens unveils to the group, revealing stacks of cash inside.

He explains that each contestant will carry the cash up the mountain and warns that if anyone chooses to quit, the money will be forfeited. He emphasizes that if they do not succeed in reaching the summit within the 14-day limit, everyone goes home with nothing.

Bennett selects Therron Pittman, a 29-year-old server from Los Angeles, as the team leader, as he is the only contestant who reached for the map towards the peak.

The final twist is revealed: a group called “The Mountain’s Keeper” will monitor the contestants throughout the journey, forcing them to make challenging choices along the way.

When does ‘The Summit’ premiere?

“The Summit” is set to premiere on Sunday, September 29, from 9-10:30 p.m. ET/8:30-10 p.m. PT, before transitioning to its regular timeslot on Wednesdays starting October 9, from 9:30-11 p.m. ET/PT on CBS.

Viewers can also stream the show on Paramount+, either live or on demand for Paramount+ with SHOWTIME subscribers, or on-demand for Paramount+ Essential subscribers the day after the episode airs.

Contributing: Emily DeLetter, YSL News