Mt. Rainier: First Expedition Skills Seminar of the Season!
Posted by: Henry Coppolillo, Dominic Cifelli
Categories: Expedition Dispatches Mount Rainier
Elevation: 12,500'
Our first Expedition Skills Seminar – Muir of the season wrapped up a productive and rewarding week on Mt. Rainier. Led by RMI Guides Henry Coppolillo and Dominic Cifelli, the team came together on Saturday for a comprehensive gear check and began their foundational skills training at Rainier Base Camp.
With full packs and high spirits, they made the ascent to Camp Muir the following day. Throughout the week, the group focused on essential mountaineering techniques, including glacier travel, ice axe arrest, and cramponing. They also practiced crevasse rescue skills, learned how to set up tents in alpine conditions, and took a windy acclimatization hike to Ingraham Flats.
Today, the team set out for their summit attempt and reached an elevation of 12,500 feet before making the decision to turn back due to potential avalanche hazards. They returned safely to Camp Muir and will continue their final 4,500-foot descent to Paradise.
It’s been a great start to the seminar season, with valuable experience gained and strong teamwork throughout.
