Climb Mount Rainier
Once a year, Skyward Mountaineering offers a customized, small group climbing trip on Mount Rainier. Join us for this exclusive and unforgettable guided ascent of Mount Rainier, one of North America’s most iconic peaks. Standing 14,411 ft Mt. Rainier towers over the other peaks in the Pacific Northwest and offers a truly unique alpine challenge - it is a test of endurance and mountaineering technique on a massive glaciated volcanic peak. With only one trip per year, this limited availability climb is with our premier IFMGA Guides who will teach you the nuances of advanced mountaineering skills as well as provide insight into the rich cultural and natural history of Mount Rainier all while navigating complex glaciers and steep snow and ice slopes to the summit. Our route of choice varies each year, though we always prioritize avoiding the crowds and seeking out more adventurous routes from the standard in order to embrace the customization of this unique opportunity.
Intermediate glacier mountaineering
2026: Emmons Glacier
2027: Kautz Glacier
Previous mountaineering experience is required
4 day planned itinerary, with an extra day optional for poor weather
June 15 - 19, 2026
2027 dates TBA
Mount Rainier
14,411 ft / 4,392 m
Emmons Glacier 4 day itinerary
-
Hike from White River Campground (4,300 ft) to the Inter Glacier Camp (8,500 ft) and set up tents for overnight camping.
-
The first half of the day incorporates in-the-field review of techniques and systems for glacier travel and snow climbing. Pack up camp in the afternoon and continue approach to Camp Schurman (9,500 ft).
-
Climb to the summit of Mount Rainier via the Emmons Glacier route and descend via the same route back to Camp Schurman.
-
We’ll enjoy a leisurely morning wake-up and pack up camp before hiking out to the trailhead, utilizing rope team travel on the Inter Glacier.
-
This day is built into the itinerary to allow for flexibility with inclement weather. We may adjust the itinerary to delay by one day or stay in the field while waiting for a summit bid. Possible rest day activities include additional snow school involving more complex topics such as crevasse rescue systems and steeper climbing techniques near Camp Schurman.
