Exclusive: Watch 'The Summit' learn they have 14 days to climb mountain for $1 million

Climbing to the top of a mountain is already a daunting feat without $1 million on the line. 

New reality competition series "The Summit" forces a group of strangers to climb Mount Head in the Southern Alps of New Zealand together if they want a cash prize. However, only a few will actually make it to the summit. 

Throughout their journey contestants carry the $1 million prize pot evenly distributed amongst themselves as they attempt to reach several checkpoint camps, where they vote someone out. Along the way, they must conquer obstacles and are forced to make difficult decisions presented by what's called "The Mountain Keeper."

If the group fails to reach the summit in 14 days they all go home empty handed. 

Watch as contestants on 'The Summit' learn their fates

Contestants unaware of what they signed up for

The first five minutes of the series, shared exclusively with USA TODAY, gave viewers a peak at what's to come. A group of 16 hopefuls who signed up for the adventure of the lifetime are blindsided when told what they must actually do.

Need a break? Play the USA TODAY Daily Crossword Puzzle.

Host Manu Bennett informs the inexperienced climbers that they have two weeks to reach the summit igniting shock faces everywhere.

"Each of you brings your own reason for being here. Your reasons are what's going to drive you up that mountain, Bennett says.

Amy Stephens, a bank manager from South Carolina, is immediately overtaken by emotions as she opens about wanting to prove to her family that she can do anything.

Meet the cast of 'The Summit':16 contestants include neuroscientist, barber and MMA referee

Bennett reveals $1 million cash prize and twists

Bennett then drops of a black duffle bag he calls "motivation," which Stephens opens in front of the group revealing packs of cash.

He then explains that they will each carry the cash to the top and that if anyone quits the money is gone and said that if they "miss the 14 day deadline to reach the summit you will all go home with nothing."

He then appoints 29-year-old Los Angeles server Therron Pittman as the team leader as he is the only one who reached for the map to the top.

He proceeds to reveal one final twist, a group known as "The Mountain's Keeper" will watch the contestants throughout their expedition to force them to make tough decisions along the way.

When does 'The Summit' premiere

"The Summit" will premiere Sunday, Sept. 29 from 9-10:30 p.m. ET/8:30-10 p.m. PT before moving to its regular time slot Wednesdays starting Oct. 9 9:30-11 p.m. ET/PT on CBS.

The show is also available to stream on Paramount+, live and on-demand for Paramount+ with SHOWTIME subscribers, or on-demand for Paramount+ Essential subscribers the day after the episode airs.

Contributing: Emily DeLetter, USA TODAY