Our final morning has been perfect. Warm, sunny weather just right for a last morning of training. Fixed rope work with ascenders, then an informative session learning about snow pits has topped off a wonderful week with a great team. Now, for a pleasant descent to Paradise then on to the luxuries of living at sea level. Though some have mentioned wanting to stay here another few days, I think we're all ready for a shower and some real food. It's been fun! RMI Guide Brent Okita

An attempt at the summit was not to be had given the avalanche conditions up high. So, instead we learned how to evaluate these conditions and deal with an avalanche rescue. In the afternoon we worked on some ice climbing skills, lowering folks into a large crevasse so they could claw and fight their way out. Everyone did great, and nobody was left in the hole. When we got back to Camp Muir, the team was still excited to do more, so we worked on advanced cramponing technique and belaying. I think everyone was psyched with how the weather has finally settled out and granted us some blue sky and mild winds. Tomorrow we address a few more skills, then head down to Basecamp in Ashford, and perhaps a beer and burger to celebrate a great week, and a fantastic crew. RMI Guide Brent Okita

After learning the fundamentals of glacier travel and snow and ice climbing, we put our newly honed skills to good use as we climbed to 11,000' to check out the upper mountain. Unfortunately, the weather came in fast and we had to beat a hasty retreat back to Camp Muir. What a fun day! RMI Guide Brent Okita

Our seminar started out on Sunday with some rainy weather, but that sure didn't get in the way of a great day of technical training at our facilities in Ashford. We got all prepared to make our way to Camp Muir the following day. On Monday we had to wait for the road to be plowed up to Paradise, but once we donned snowshoes at the trailhead it was all systems 'go'. Breaking trail through the new snow slowed our ascent some, but a windless day made the seven-hour hike bearable. The clouds even parted for the last half hour offering us a gorgeous view of the summit. Folks were all pretty happy when we finally got horizontal, and were still in that position when I woke them up eleven hours later. This morning we've been gifted a beautiful, sunny day with no wind. A rare thing at 10,000' on Mt. Rainier in April. Everyone is psyched and doing well, ready for an exciting day of training. This afternoon we plan on climbing to Ingraham Flats to explore the mountain some and get our feet wet on the lower flanks on our climbing route. All for now from Camp Muir. RMI Guide Brent Okita