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 19, 2021):

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

We will then check everyone’s gear and food to make sure we have what we need and proceed to REI/Feathered Friends for any last minute rentals.  REI and Feathered Friends can supply the majority of the rentals you will might need for this program and can be arranged ahead of time. Grocery shop as needed before driving to Enumclaw hotel.

Day 2 (Sunday, June 20, 2021):

Leaving around 0730 we will drive from Enumclaw to White River trailhead and hike to the Glacier Basin Camp (6000-ft).  Typically we will hike this leg in hiking shoes and carry our mountain boots as it is usually dirt trail this time of year.  We will have the options to hike directly to Camp Schurman (9500-ft) as weather window and team indicates is preferable.

Day 3 (Monday, June 21, 2021):

Move camp to Camp Schurman.

Day 4 (Tuesday, June 22, 2021):

Weather window for summit attempt or skills development.

Day 5 (Wednesday June 23, 2021):

Weather window for summit attempt or skills development.

Day 6 (Thursday June 24, 2021):

Weather window for summit attempt or skills development.

Day 7 (Friday June 25, 2021):

Descend to White River. Drive to Seattle, hotel drop-off.  To fly out this day flights would probably need to be at least after 9pm to avoid unforeseen issues, not recommended.

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.