September 4, 2019
IMG Guide, Zach Weinberg, taking it all in on a 2019 ascent Mt. Rainier (Sina Tavallai)
The wait is over! Our 2020 Mt. Rainier dates have been released!
Registration is now open for the following 2020 Programs:
6.5 Day Denali Prep Seminar – This program is a perfect introduction to extreme cold weather mountaineering and a perquisite for a guided Denali Expedition. Learn crevasse rescue, sled rigging & hauling, expedition camping, navigation, fixed line travel, and more.
AIARE Avalanche Level I – This three day course is an introduction to the skills a backcountry recreationist needs to safely travel in avalanche terrain. Topics covered include identifying avalanche terrain, understanding snowpack basics, developing a plan, team decision making, and fundamentals of companion rescue.
AIARE Avalanche Rescue Course – This one day program is intended to be retaken every other year to maintain and hone your companion rescue skills. New students can focus on the basics of companion rescue while returning students expand their skills with advanced topics. All students receive in-depth training and feedback during realistic scenario practice. The Avalanche Rescue Course is a prerequisite of the AIARE Level 2 Course.
3.5 Day Disappointment Cleaver Route – This program is by far the most enjoyable way to climb Rainier and is also a great introduction to mountaineering. Learn to climb safely and efficiently with expert instruction on cramponing, ice axe arrest, and rope team travel.
Women’s 3.5 Day Disappointment Cleaver Climb – If you’re a woman looking to climb and make connections with other strong women, don’t miss this program. Led by an all-female guide crew, this program follows the same itinerary as our other 3.5 Day DC Climbs.
 4.5 Day Emmons Route – Excellent for the strong beginner to intermediate climber with a very high level of fitness and stamina. The Emmons climb offers a more remote, aesthetic experience on a quieter side of the mountain. Expedition-style climbing requires a heavier pack than our standard DC, but it’s well worth the effort.
Kautz Route – This exciting intermediate route includes ascending a 30-50 degree snow/ice chute. Because the Kautz is more demanding and technical than the standard routes, prerequisites include a prior summit of Mt. Rainier via the DC or Emmons (or a comparable glacier climb approved by IMG). Come test your mettle on this challenging route off the beaten path.
Advanced climbers will enjoy the challenge of more technical programs such as the Fuhrer Finger and Liberty Ridge.
Additional training programs focusing on skills development include our Little Tahoma Seminar, Glacier Skills Seminar, Mountaineering Day School, Advanced Mountaineering Day School, and Crevasse Rescue School.
Check out our Rainier FAQ and click here to register !
Please note that the only way to apply for a spot on a Mt. Rainier program is to submit a completed Rainier application form and application fee. Absolutely no reservations or holds will be taken by phone. No exceptions.
Each application is time-stamped and processed in the order in which it is received. List your available dates in order of preference and if you are climbing with one or more partners, you’ll want to include each other’s names in the space provided on the application. It is best to send your applications all together in one email.
All fees are non-refundable and non-transferable. We strongly advise that you purchase travel insurance that includes trip cancellation coverage to protect your investment in the event you need to cancel.
Heather Garland