How to Climb Mt. Rainier
Mt. Rainier is one of many volcanic mountains in the Cascade Mountain Range, which extends from Northern California northward to Canada. As the tallest mountain in Washington State at 14,410 feet and with major glaciers, it is a leading Northwest attraction and a popular destination for climbers. Climb Mt. Rainier and enjoy its imposing beauty, whether you're a first time climber or an experienced mountaineer.
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Things You'll Need
- Maps & compass
- Mittens/gloves (with liners)
- Tent/emergency shelter & signaling devices
- Ice Axe
- Crampons
- Boots, lug soled or plastic, with gaitors
- Pack, internal frame
- Sleeping Bag--comfortable to 10° F
- Carabiniers, 2 each
- Ensolite Pad
- Flashlight
- Prussik slings(3) or ascenders
- Headlamp and extra batteries
- Knife
- Matches & fire starter
- Food
- Water
- First Aid Kit
- Lip balm and sun block
- Sunglasses & goggles
- Waterproof clothing/extra clothing
- Down jacket & rain gear
- Polypropylene or capilene long underwear (shirt and pants)
Instructions
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Get in shape. Climbing Mt. Rainier is not for the faint-of-heart. Exercise and train daily to prepare for your climb if you're not an experienced and practiced mountain climber. Take frequent short climbs ahead of time to prepare to climb Mt. Rainier.
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Know that weather conditions often change suddenly on Mt. Rainier. Be prepared-buy and carry the basic essentials plus other necessary climbing gear. Check mountain climbing guides for gear needed, especially if you plan to climb during winter.
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Realize that if you're not an experienced climber, you can hire guides to climb Mt. Rainier, such as "Rainier Mountaineering Inc.," (360) 569-2227, "International Mountain Guides LLC," (360) 569-2609 or "Alpine Ascents International," (206)378-1927, who all have years of guide and trip planning experience.
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Obtain mountain climbing routes and maps from the "Mt. Rainier National Park" or the "National Park Service" websites if you plan your own trip and won't hire a guide. Find campsites on standard routes-Camp Muir on the south side at 10,000 feet and Camp Schurman on the east side at 9,500 feet.
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Ask a friend to climb Mt. Rainier with you-it's required that you have at least a party of two people. Get written permission from parents or legal guardians if you or your climbing partners are under 18 years old.
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Purchase and obtain permits to climb Mt. Rainier if you plan to go above 10,000 feet or if you plan to trek across glaciers. Register with the park ranger whether you're going for a short climb or will go all the way to the summit. Check out with the ranger before you leave also.
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Educate yourself about avalanche and other dangers. Devise survival and backup plans for emergencies. Go over these plans with your climbing team ahead of time. Know how to check for mountain conditions and warnings. Learn the safest routes to climb Mt. Rainier.
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Find out how to make climbing reservations via the "Mount Rainier National Park" website and click the link, "Climbing Reservation Policies." Be prepared to pay a fee to climb Mt. Rainier.
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Tips & Warnings
Follow mountain climbing guides on the "Mt. Rainier National Park" and the "National Park Service" websites for team climbing equipment needed and ice climbing equipment needed (for winter climbing).
Climb leaders should be experienced climbers, know Mt. Rainier climbing routes and be responsible for the climb team. Leaders must make sure everyone is roped together securely when crossing glaciers.
