Climb Mount Rainier, Emmons Glacier

Standing at 14,411’, Mt. Rainier is one of the most challenging peaks in the continental United States.  It features over 13,000 feet of relief and well-developed glaciers guard its climbing routes. These same tests of endurance and technical know-how make Rainier one of the most sought after mountaineering objectives in the country.  But it isn’t just the challenge that attracts alpinists, Mt. Rainier provides an amazing opportunity to see some of the biggest glaciers outside of Alaska, including the Emmons and Winthrop glaciers.

As a member of our small, guided mountaineering party, you’ll cross some of the largest glaciers on Mt. Rainier, gain close to 10,000 feet of elevation and develop your skills under the tutelage of our AMGA-trained mountain guides. You’ll have the opportunity to spend multiple nights on Mt. Rainier at Glacier Basin Camp (6000’) and Camp Schurman (9500’).

Since weather is the most challenging factor to manage that could prevent a successful summit, Colorado Mountain School guides the Emmons Route over a 7-day itinerary to provide some of the most favorable circumstances for success.  This itinerary reserves a healthy window (3 days) for our summit attempt and will maximize our chances of success. While we wait for the perfect weather for our climb there is a great opportunity to develop skills and explore the Emmons and Winthrop glaciers that flank Camp Schurman.

Climbing and descending this demanding route over a 7-day period provides an exceptional opportunity for the fit and well-trained climber to climb on the less traveled, more pristine side of Mt. Rainier with some of the most favorable circumstances for success.

View the “Sample Itinerary” tab to learn more about the Mt. Rainier expedition.

Day 1 (Saturday, June 8, 2024):

Client Arrival, Gear Check, Final Supply Run

Day 2 (Sunday, June 9, 2024):

Start Glacier Basin TH, First Night @ Glacier Basin Camp (Basic Skills Day)

Day 3 (Monday, June 10, 2024):

Glacier Basin > Emmons Flats

Day 4 (Tuesday, June 11, 2024): 

Emmons Flats (Crevasse Rescue)

Day 5 (Wednesday June 12, 2024):

Emmons Flats (Skills/Summit)

Day 6 (Thursday June 13, 2024):

Emmons Flats (Skills/Contingency) > Exit

Arrive in Seattle by noon.  The guides will communicate with you ahead of time to arrange the airport / hotel pick up around noon.

Payment Schedule:
· 50% deposit due upon registration
· Balance due 90 days before Day 1 of trip

Expedition Cancellation Policy:
· A refund minus a 10% administrative fee can be issued 120 days prior to trip start.
· 50% will be refunded 90 to 120 days before trip start.
· 25% will be refunded 75 to 90 days before trip start.
· Inside of 75 day, no refund is available.
· The Mt. Rainier expedition requires a minimum of three clients, but may be booked individually. If we cancel a trip prior to its start for low enrollment, we will fully refund your payments. You will be notified at least 75 days prior to the trip. We recommend you confirm your flight itinerary with Colorado Mountain School before booking travel.