The Camp Muir Guided Hike is ideal for adventurers looking to challenge themselves while enjoying Mt. Rainier’s stunning alpine environment. Whether you’re training for future climbs or simply exploring, this hike provides expert guidance, unforgettable views, and a meaningful connection to the mountain.
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Program Highlights
Led by RMI’s expert guides, the hike offers breathtaking views, engaging instruction, and a memorable journey to Camp Muir, a historic climbers’ camp at 10,080 feet. Gain valuable insights into the mountain’s climbing history, geology, and unique glacial systems while tackling a challenging ascent through meadows and snowfields.
- Guided by Experts: Join RMI’s trained Mt. Rainier climbing guides for an immersive experience. Learn about the mountain’s rich climbing history, glaciology, and cultural significance from seasoned professionals.
- Spectacular Landscapes: Trek 4,600 vertical feet through a dynamic alpine environment. Expect stunning vistas, vibrant wildflowers, and opportunities to spot wildlife like mountain goats and marmots as you journey above the treeline.
- Iconic Camp Muir: Reach the renowned Camp Muir at 10,080 feet, a historic staging ground for summit attempts that climbers have used for over a century.
- A True Challenge: Push your limits on this physically demanding hike, covering 4,600 feet of elevation gain and loss over 9 miles of breathtaking round-trip trekking.
Mt. Rainier’s majestic peak, rising to 14,410 feet, symbolizes the Pacific Northwest’s natural beauty. As the tallest mountain in Washington and the most glaciated in the Lower 48, its 25+ glaciers shape an awe-inspiring and rugged landscape. Whether you’re planning to summit Rainier or simply want to explore its striking terrain, the Camp Muir Guided Hike offers an unforgettable way to experience this iconic mountain.
Perched at 10,080 feet, Camp Muir is a historic waypoint for summit-bound climbers. It offers unmatched views of Rainier’s glaciers and surrounding landscapes. For over a century, it has been a launching pad for summit bids, embodying the spirit of adventure and endurance.
The Camp Muir Guided Hike is challenging and rewarding. It is designed for those ready to tackle steep and strenuous terrain. Over nine miles, it gains and loses 4,600 feet in elevation, testing stamina, determination, and a love for adventure.
The RMI Difference
With over 50 years of guiding experience, RMI Expeditions is synonymous with excellence in mountaineering. Our dedicated team is committed to providing not just an adventure but a transformative experience. Every detail of the Camp Muir Guided Hike is thoughtfully designed to ensure your journey is enjoyable, rewarding, and unforgettable. From expert guides to comprehensive logistical support, RMI sets the standard for world-class outdoor experiences.
Key Highlights:
- Legacy of Expertise: With over five decades of guiding excellence, RMI has shaped climbers and mountain guides across generations.
- Wealth of Knowledge: We ask our guides to be stewards of the mountains they work on, ensuring in-depth knowledge of Mount Rainier's (Tahoma) natural and historical significance.
- Comprehensive Support: RMI’s guides handle all logistics and expedition details, allowing you to focus on mastering your skills.
If you have any questions about the program or need help preparing, contact us at (888) 89-CLIMB or [email protected]. We’re here to help Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Authorized Concessioner
RMI Expeditions is an authorized concessioner of Mount Rainier National Park. We have operated within Mount Rainier National Park since 1969.
Address comments to:
Superintendent | Mount Rainier National Park
55210 238th Avenue East
Ashford, WA 98304
These services are operated in an area under jurisdiction of the U.S. Department of the Interior. No discrimination by segregation or other means in the furnishing of services or privileges on the basis of race, creed, color, ancestry, sex, age, disabling condition, or national origin is permitted in the use of this facility. Violation of this prohibition are punishable by fine, imprisonment, or both.
CARBON NEUTRAL CLIMBS & Climate Change
All our climbs in Mt. Rainier National Park are 100% carbon neutral. We have acquired offsets for greenhouse gas emissions through our partnership with Ostrom Climate, Canada's top carbon management solutions provider. Their carbon offset projects undergo rigorous verification by third parties to validate that emission reductions are genuine and permanent, ensuring that our contribution is making a tangible impact.
For Mt. Rainier, our primary carbon emissions stem from several sources: the electricity for our office, warehouse, and employee housing, all shuttle operations, commuting miles for office staff, stove fuel used on the seminars, and propane used at Camp Muir for cooking and melting water. These activities generate an estimated 15 tons of carbon annually. We participate in a "Green Power" program for all our electricity needs, which means our electricity comes from the wind farms in eastern Washington, which significantly reduces our emissions. Electricity is one of the biggest sources of emissions, and without the Green Power program, we estimate the annual amount of carbon emissions to be closer to 70 tons.
By supporting this project, we effectively prevent the same amount of greenhouse gas emissions generated from our operations from being emitted elsewhere. These offsets are instrumental in fulfilling our sustainability objectives and advancing responsible environmental practices.
The RMI Difference
When it comes to exploring Mt. Rainier, experience and expert guidance make all the difference. Since 1969, Rainier Mountaineering, Inc. (RMI) has been a leader in guided adventures, helping hikers and climbers of all levels connect with this iconic mountain. With over five decades of expertise, our team provides the support, knowledge, and preparation needed to make your Camp Muir Guided Hike as rewarding as it is unforgettable.
Expert Guides
Our guides are at the heart of what makes RMI special. With years of experience on Mt. Rainier and beyond, they bring unmatched knowledge and a passion for teaching. During the hike, they’ll share stories about Rainier’s climbing history, insights into its glacial landscapes, and tips for navigating the mountain’s unique terrain.
What Sets RMI Guides Apart:
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Top-Tier Training: Our guides are certified in Wilderness First Responder (WFR), Avalanche Pro 1, and Leave No Trace principles. They also complete RMI’s rigorous in-house training and ongoing professional development.
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Risk Management Expertise: From emergency protocols to carrying essential equipment, our guides are prepared for every situation.
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Mountain Stewardship: Committed to Leave No Trace practices, RMI guides minimize environmental impact and educate hikers on sustainable practices.
With an RMI guide leading the way, you’ll feel supported every step of the journey.
Logistical Support
We take care of the details so you can focus on enjoying the adventure. From pre-hike planning to gear checks, RMI’s support system ensures a smooth and stress-free experience.
Here’s How We Help:
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Program Preparation: Our office team provides itinerary details and gear recommendations to set you up for success.
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Gear Assistance: Whether you need rentals or advice on equipment, we’ve got you covered.
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Seamless Scheduling: We handle logistics like shuttle coordination, so you can focus on the hike.
Every aspect of the hike is designed with your comfort and success in mind.
Risk Management
At RMI, creating a margin of safety is our highest priority. Our guides follow strict risk management protocols and use their expertise to create a supportive environment where you can confidently tackle the hike to Camp Muir.
Key Risk Management Measures Include:
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Thorough Planning: Every detail of the route, timing, and potential contingencies is carefully planned.
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Personalized Attention: Small group sizes mean more one-on-one time with your guide.
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Experienced Decision-Making: RMI guides rely on decades of knowledge to make sound, informed decisions on the trail.
You can trust that your Camp Muir adventure is in the best hands.
Since 1969, RMI has been helping adventurers discover the beauty and challenge of Mt. Rainier. The Camp Muir Guided Hike isn’t just a trek—it’s an opportunity to learn, grow, and connect with one of the Pacific Northwest’s most iconic landscapes.
If you have any questions about the program or need help preparing, contact us at (888) 89-CLIMB or [email protected]. We’re here to help Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Travel Consultant
RMI has partnered with Erin Rountree to provide comprehensive travel support. We have been working with Erin for many years. As an independent agent of the Travel Society, she has booked countless miles for adventure travelers across the globe and is extremely knowledgeable about the travel needs of our programs. Please call (208) 788-2870 or send email to [email protected].
Travel Insurance
We highly recommend travel insurance for this trip.
Your travel insurance policy should include trip cancellation, trip interruption, travel delay, baggage loss or delay, medical expenses, and evacuation.
Navigating through the different options for travel insurance can be challenging. When purchasing Travel Insurance, here are a few items to consider:
- Read the fine print. Travel Insurance offers reimbursement when you must cancel your trip for an eligible reason for prepaid, non-refundable trip costs that you insure. However, there are exclusions, so make sure you understand the "eligible reasons."
- Confirm that your activity is an eligible "activity." Not all travel insurance policies will offer coverage for activities such as mountaineering, climbing, skiing, or trekking adventures. Policies can also exclude coverage for activities due to the gear used (crampons, ice axe), activities that go above specific elevations, or activities in a particular region of the world. If there are exclusions, you may need to add an "Adventure" or "Sports" package to help cover your activity.
- Verify that your state of residence is allowed with the policy that you are purchasing. Not all insurance companies offer policies in all 50 states.
- Contact your travel protection company directly for any questions you have regarding benefits or coverage.
TRAVELEX
In today’s changing travel environment, it’s important to protect your travel investment. Unforeseen events such as flight delays, baggage loss or even a sudden sickness or injury could impact your travel plans. For your convenience, we offer Travelex Insurance protection plans to help protect you and your travel investment against the unexpected.
For more information on the available plans visit Travelex Insurance Services or contact Travelex Insurance (800) 228-9792 and reference location number 47-0370.
The product descriptions provided here are only brief summaries and may be changed without notice. The full coverage terms and details, including limitations and exclusions, are contained in the insurance policy. Travelex Insurance Services, Inc. CA Agency License #0D10209. Insurance coverages underwritten by individual member companies of Zurich in North America, including Zurich American Insurance Company (NAIC #16535, state of domicile: New York). RETWEB
harbor
Harbor Travel Insurance covers the following critical benefits:
- Evacuation to a nearest appropriate hospital once hospitalized.
- Trip cancellation/interruption, primary medical expense coverage, sporting goods, baggage loss, emergency dental, AD&D, and more.
- Completely integrated one-stop program with a single contact for emergency services to travel assistance and insurance claims
- 24/7 access to paramedics, nurses, and military veterans.
Harbor Travel Insurance is powered by Redpoint Resolutions, a medical and travel security risk company. Their team is comprised of special operations veterans, paramedics, Stanford Medicine affiliated physicians, former intelligence officers, insurance actuaries, and global security experts with dozens of years of experience in theaters around the world. The Redpoint network covers the globe, making them uniquely equipped to provide elite rescue travel insurance – in every sense of the word.
Getting There
Rainier BaseCamp is located in Ashford, WA, and is the home of RMI Expeditions, Whittaker Mountaineering, Whittaker's Bunkhouse, and BaseCamp Bar and Grill. Ashford is located 75 miles from the Sea-Tac Airport.
Note: Beginning May 7, 2025, every air traveler 18 years of age and older will need a REAL ID compliant driver’s license, state-issued enhanced driver’s license, or another acceptable form of ID to fly within the United States.
Most climbers traveling to Ashford will want to rent a car from the airport. This is the most convenient and reliable way to get here.
Ride Share: If you are interested in sharing a ride, please go to your RMI Account, then to "Discussion Board" and "Ride Share" to post your information.
Seattle Airport Car Service
Phone: 206-375-4000
Email: [email protected]
ENTRY INTO MT. RAINIER NATIONAL PARK
All our Mt. Rainier programs begin at Rainier BaseCamp in Ashford. All Mt. Rainier climbs, seminars and schools include transportation for our climbers from Rainier BaseCamp to Paradise or to the White River Entrance.
You do not need to have a timed entry reservation if you are using RMI’s provided transportation.
If you are driving your own vehicle into Mount Rainier National Park, you may need to make a reservation for entry. Timed Entry Reservations - Mount Rainier National Park.
Ashford Area Accommodations
| The Hideaway Tiny House | n/a |
| The Overlook | n/a |
| Whittaker's Motel and Historic Bunkhouse | (360) 569-2439 |
| Nisqually Lodge | (360) 569-8804 |
| Alexander's Lodge | (360) 569-2300 |
| Wellspring Spa & Cabins | (360) 569-2514 |
| Guest Services Inc: (Paradise Inn and National Park Inn) | (360) 569-2275 |
| Mt. Rainier Visitor Association | (360) 569-0910 |
| Camping | n/a |
| You may also go to VisitRainier.com to search for accommodations in the Ashford area. | |
Weather
For updated Mt. Rainier weather forecasts, click here.
Please click on the links below to see the Mt. Rainier webcams:
- Paradise view towards Mount Rainier
- Paradise view - East
- Paradise view - West
- Paradise view towards the Tatoosh Range
- Longmire view
- Air Quality Camera
Tipping
Our guides put considerable effort into ensuring your safety and success on the mountain. If you had a positive experience, leaving a gratuity is a wonderful gesture to show your appreciation. The amount is up to you and should reflect how much you enjoyed the service. Typically, tips for excellent service range from 10% to 15% of the program cost. Guides can accept gratuities in cash, Venmo, or by check. If you prefer, you can also pay tips using a credit card through the RMI Office.
Facts
Mt Rainier became the nation's fifth National Park in 1899, some twenty-nine years after it was first climbed. Mt. Rainier National Park encompasses 235,625 acres and is 97% wilderness and 3% National Historic Landmark District. At 14,410', Mt. Rainier is the most prominent peak in the Cascade Range. It is a dormant volcano that last erupted approximately 150 years ago.
Guided mountaineering activity has taken place since the late 1800s, and The Mountain is still considered a prime training ground for climbing in Alaska, South America, and the Himalayas. With more than 20 active glaciers encompassing some 36 square miles of ice, Rainier boasts the largest ice cover of any peak in the lower 48 United States. Its weather can be deceptively gentle or as fierce as encountered on any high mountain anywhere in the world. There is a wealth of information on the Mt. Rainier National Park website. We encourage you to enhance your enjoyment of the climb with some fun facts about the Park and the history of climbing there.
Resources
General Information on Mt. Rainier National Park (MRNP) - www.nps.gov/mora
The Mountaineers Book - www.mountaineersbooks.org
Gateway Communities & Activities outside Mt. Rainier National Park - www.visitrainier.com
Recommended Reading
The Challenge of Rainier, by Dee Molenaar
Mt. Rainier - A Climbing Guide, by Mike Gauthier
Mt. Rainier: The Story Behind the Scenery, by Ray Snow
National Geographic Trails Illustrated MRNP topo map
Qualifications for the Camp Muir Guided Hike
Fitness Requirements
The Camp Muir Guided Hike is intended as an introductory program, but that doesn't mean it's a walk in the park! Reaching Camp Muir requires a combination of physical stamina, mental toughness, and efficient hiking techniques. RMI guides set a steady, moderate pace that allows the group to take breaks, enjoy the scenery, and still reach your high point, returning with energy to spare. Participants must be able to maintain the group's pace and care for themselves throughout the journey. Your guides will help you with hiking best-practices, pacing, and self-care techniques that have proven successful for thousands of hikers and climbers travelling at altitude.
Physical fitness is the single most critical factor in determining your success and enjoyment on this hike. Hiking and climbing at moderate altitudes is physically demanding, even for individuals in excellent shape. The Camp Muir Guided Hike involves significant elevation gain, and the route’s length requires participants to be prepared for a full day of challenging physical activity.
RMI has over 50 years of experience guiding adventurers on Mt. Rainier. Based on this expertise, the following factors have the greatest influence on a participant’s ability to hike for 8+ hours in the backcountry:
Training for your Camp Muir HIke
Here are some tips to help prepare for your Camp Muir Guided Hike.
- Start immediately: Start a rigorous fitness and training program now with the goal of arriving in top physical condition and confident in your skills.
- Be intentional: Focus on gaining the necessary strength, stamina, and skills to meet the physical and technical demands of the climb.
- Be sport-specific: The best fitness and training program mimics the activity (hiking) that you will be doing. The closer you get to your program date, the more your training should resemble the climbing (i.e. long hikes, stair steppers, etc.). Consider wearing a 20-25lbs backpack to help condition your back.
To maximize your chances of success on the Camp Muir Guided Hike, focus on building aerobic endurance, strength, and mental resilience in your training. By preparing thoroughly, you’ll ensure a more enjoyable experience and have the best opportunity to fully appreciate the beauty and challenge of this iconic hike.
Camp Muir Guided hike Stats
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Total Hiking Time
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Elevation Gain / Loss
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Total Distance
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Pack Weight
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| DAY 1 | |||
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7-9 Hours
Round Trip |
Gain = 4,600'
Loss = 4,600' |
9 Miles
Round Trip |
20 - 25 lbs
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Check out RMI’s Fitness Resources here.
What You’ll Need
A list of required personal equipment accompanies every RMI program, and the thought process behind each item is much greater than simply “preparing for the worst and hoping for the best.” The list for your program takes into account factors such as: seasonality, route conditions, weather, elevation and more. As such, this list is framed within the broadest of contexts and is dynamic by its very nature. Therefore, certain variables (additions and/or subtractions) are inherent within such an all-encompassing list. We make every effort to recommend only top of the line clothing and technical gear and it is never our intention for you to buy or rent unnecessary gear.
The Guide Pick is an example of the listed item, giving you an idea of the material and specifications of the item. This exact item does not need to be purchased or used; however, any item you choose must have similar characteristics and performance abilities to the Guide Pick.
RMI Guides concur on the potential necessity of every item, thus every item on the list is required at gear check. However, guides may also have suggestions derived from their experience, some of which will vary from a given list. The guides’ recommendation whether to bring along or leave behind certain item(s) comes during the gear check, when the team first meets. Occasionally this recommendation comes at the expense of having previously purchased an item. If a guide presents the option of leaving behind certain item(s) on the list of required equipment, it is for a reason. Their recommendation may be related to the weather, route conditions, freezing level, perceived strength of the party, or desired pack weight.
Ultimately, there will never be a consensus for a “perfect” equipment list for an ascent. It does not exist because of the multitude of variables faced by climbers throughout the climb. Please follow this equipment list closely so that you will arrive for the gear check with all the required items. Keep in mind the list is not black and white, fine tuning will occur once you meet with your guide. Have a great climb!
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Most of the required equipment is available for rent or purchase from our affiliate Whittaker Mountaineering. RMI climbers receive a 10% discount on new clothing and equipment items ordered from Whittaker Mountaineering.
Shop Your Equipment List
Equipment List
GUIDE PICK
Guide Pick™ is a collaboration between RMI Expeditions and Whittaker Mountaineering. At the end of each season, Whittaker Mountaineering surveys RMI's guides to determine the best mountaineering gear and apparel. They compile the results, reach a consensus, and award the best in each category with a Guide Pick™ label.
This exact item does not need to be purchased or used; however, any item you choose must have characteristics and performance abilities similar to those of the Guide Pick.
Pack & Travel
Your backpack should be large enough to carry all of your personal gear, food and water.
Technical Gear
We recommend lightweight and collapsible poles with snow baskets.
Head
Wool or synthetic. It should provide warmth but also be thin enough to fit underneath a climbing helmet.
A Buff provides versatile head and neck protection. A neck gaiter is also acceptable.
Glacier glasses are protective sunglasses that provide close to 100% frame coverage (wrap-around frames and side shields ensure no light can enter from the top, bottom, and sides of the glasses) and transmit less than 10% of visual light.
Hands
Light weight liner or softshell gloves. Lighter colors absorb less sunlight while still offering UV protection.
Wind- and water-resistant, insulated mountain gloves.
Upper Body
We recommend a minimum of five upper body layers, all of which can be used in conjunction with each other. Two of these should be insulating layers, one light, and one medium, that fit well together. Today there are many different layering systems to choose from, including fleece, softshell, down, and synthetic options.
Long-sleeve wool or synthetic top. Light weight, light-colored, hooded baselayers (sun hoodys) are highly recommended for sun protection.
One step up in warmth and bulk from a baselayer. A technical fleece makes an ideal light weight insulating layer.
A down, synthetic, or softshell hoody makes a great midlayer.
An uninsulated, waterproof shell jacket with hood.
A lightweight soft shell for protection again wind and light rain.
Lower Body
We recommend a system of four layers, all of which can be used in conjunction with each other. Products which combine several layers into one garment, such as traditional ski pants, don’t work well as they don’t offer the versatility of a layering system.
Non-cotton briefs or boxers.
Synthetic or wool.
Softshell climbing pants can be worn in combination with a base layer on colder days, or alone on warmer days.
Non-insulated, waterproof shell pants must be able to fit comfortable over your baselayer bottoms and softshell climbing pants. Full side zippers or 7/8 side zippers are required so that shell pants can be put on while wearing boots and crampons.
A light weight, synthetic pair of pants is a good option for the approach trek when hiking at lower altitudes and in warm conditions. These pants have no insulation, are typically made of thin nylon, and commonly feature zippers to convert between pants and shorts.
Feet
SINGLE BOOTS: Insulated, full-shank, and crampon-compatible leather or synthetic boots designed for mountaineering. Single boots tend to be lighter and more comfortable than double boots at the expense of warmth.
Large enough to fit over your trekking boots to guard against mud and snow.
First Aid & Medications
Our guides carry comprehensive medical kits, so keep yours small and light. We recommend a selection of adhesive bandages, antibiotic ointment, Moleskin and blister care, medical tape and/or duct tape, cough drops, basic painkillers, an antacid, an anti-diarrheal, and personal medications.
Personal Items
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See the Food tab for suggestions and quantities.
One-liter water bottles with wide mouths made of co-polyester (BPA-free plastic).
Heavy-duty trash compacter bags for use as waterproof pack/stuff sack liners. You can also use a waterproof pack liner.
We recommend small tubes of SPF 30 or higher, which can be carried in pockets for easy access and to prevent freezing.
Many smartphones have excellent cameras. Action cameras, small point-and-shoots, and compact dSLRs are lightweight and work well at altitude.
Watch with an altimeter, barometer, and compass. Many smart watches will also have this functionality.
Travel Clothes
We recommend bringing a selection of clothing to wear while traveling, sightseeing and dining.
Pre-Trip Checklist
Purchase travel insurance.
Purchase airplane tickets.
Arrange lodging in Ashford.
Reserve rental equipment.
Arrange transportation to Ashford.
Meals for the Camp Muir Guided Hike
Mountain Lunches
During your hike, you’ll snack frequently to keep your energy up, typically taking short breaks every hour. Mountain lunches are simple and convenient—avoid foods that require preparation or hot water on the trail. Pack about 1 pound of food per day, pre-portioned in snack or sandwich-size Ziploc bags for easy access.
Grab-and-Go Trail Lunches at BaseCamp Bar & Grill
Before you hit the trail, stop by Rainier BaseCamp Bar and Grill to stock up on ready-to-eat trail lunches. Choose from a selection of fresh, convenient options, such as sandwiches, wraps, and pizza slices—all perfect for keeping you energized on the hike. These quick and delicious meals are designed to travel well, so you can snack and refuel without missing a step.
What to Pack
Proper nutrition is essential for maintaining energy and strength, especially at altitude. Combat appetite loss with a variety of foods that cover all cravings—sweet, salty, and savory. Some ideas include:
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Grab-and-Go Options: Cold pizza slices, bagel sandwiches, tortilla wraps
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Snacks & Crunch: Chips, trail mix, peanut butter pretzels, chocolate-covered pretzels
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Fresh Additions: Apple slices, veggies with hummus
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Sweet Treats: Cookies, candy bars, protein bars, chewy candy
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Savory Favorites: Crackers, charcuterie (cured meats, cheese, and crackers)
For additional questions or recommendations, contact us at (888) 89-CLIMB or [email protected].
Payments
Payment in full is due at time of reservation.
- Payments can be made via MasterCard*, Visa*, American Express*, e-check/ACH, U.S. bank check, or wire transfer**.
*Note: A 3% surcharge applies to all credit/debit card transactions.
**Wire transfers must include all fees charged by your bank. The amount received by our bank must match the deposit amount.
Cancellation
Of your program fee, $75 is non-refundable and non-transferable.
- Cancellations must be submitted in writing. Once received, the following policy applies:
- Cancellations made 90 or more days before the program start date will forfeit the $75 fee.
- Cancellations made less than 90 days before the program start date will not receive refunds or credits.
Due to the time-sensitive nature of this program, no exceptions will be made to the cancellation policy.
Cancellation Insurance
We highly recommend travel insurance for this trip. Please see our Travel Tab for details.
Change of Date
Date changes are subject to availability and can only be applied to the current climbing season. Changes must be requested at least 60 days before the departure date and will incur a $50 fee per person. No date changes are allowed within 60 days of departure.
Risk Management
Please clearly understand that mountaineering is inherently a hazardous sport. Managing risk is RMI’s number one priority. Our guides manage significant hazards inherent in mountaineering, but they cannot eliminate them. Objective hazards include rockfall, icefall, avalanches, slides or falls by individuals and rope teams on steeper slopes, weather-related problems including cold, heat, high winds, and other unnamed dangers that can occur while climbing.
You are choosing to engage in an activity in which guided and non-guided climbers have been injured and killed. While those accidents are indeed infrequent, they may occur at any time and be out of our control. We ask that participants acknowledge the risk and hazards of mountaineering and make their own choices about whether or not to engage in this activity.
Participant Responsibilities
Mountaineering is both an individual challenge and a team effort. Each participant shares responsibility for the safety and success of the group. Therefore, we ask that each participant:
- Be physically and mentally fit for the program.
- Review and understand all provided program information.
- Notify the RMI Office of any changes to your health or medical information before departure.
- Be properly attired and equipped according to the Equipment List.
- Act considerately towards all team members.
- Minimize environmental impact by following Leave No Trace practices.
- Honestly and accurately describe your fitness, health, skills, abilities, and equipment to the guide staff.
- Communicate any changes in medications or health to the guide staff during the program.
- Follow the advice of your guide staff.
- Continuously assess your fitness, health, skills, and abilities in relation to the program’s demands.
RMI reserves the right to remove a participant from the program or to send them to a lower altitude if the guide staff determines, at their discretion, that the participant is not adequately prepared or capable of participating safely. This decision may be based on physical, technical, or psychological factors, or any other reason that might affect the safety, health, or well-being of the participant or the group. If removed, the participant will not receive refunds or credits and will be responsible for all additional costs associated with early departure, including evacuation, transportation, hotel reservations, and meals.
Zero Tolerance Harassment Policy
RMI has a strict zero-tolerance policy for harassment or mistreatment of our participants or employees. Inappropriate behavior under this policy includes any conduct that creates a disrespectful, intimidating, hostile, degrading, humiliating, or offensive environment for others. Such behavior is considered a violation of this policy.
RMI may consider behavior to be in violation of this policy even if it does not meet the legal definition of harassment. When assessing whether conduct violates this policy, we will evaluate whether a reasonable person would perceive the behavior as creating an intimidating, hostile, degrading, or demeaning environment.
Violations of this policy may lead to removal from a program and denial of services indefinitely. We prioritize the safety and well-being of our participants and employees. Please report any incidents to RMI management.
Age requirements
All participants must be 18 years old at the time of registration.
Photo Release
RMI’s Photo Release outlines the terms and conditions for using your likeness in photographs, videos, or other digital media.
I hereby grant Rainier Mountaineering, Inc. (RMI) or its affiliates permission to use my likeness in a photograph, video, or other digital media (“photo”) in any and all of its publications, including web-based publications. By granting permission, you allow RMI to utilize these media for lawful purposes.
Here are the key points:
- Authorization: You authorize RMI to edit, alter, copy, exhibit, publish, or distribute the photos.
- Ownership: All photos become the property of RMI and will not be returned.
- Compensation: You will not be compensated for these uses.
- Rights: RMI exclusively owns all rights to the images, videos, and recordings and to any derivative works created from them.
- Waiver: You waive the right to inspect or approve printed or electronic copies.
- Release: You release Rainier Mountaineering, Inc. and its assigns and licensees from any claims arising from these uses, including defamation, invasion of privacy, rights of publicity, or copyright.
- Hold Harmless: You hold harmless, release, and forever discharge RMI or its affiliates from any and all claims, demands, and causes of action which I, my heirs, representatives, executors, administrators, or any other persons acting on my behalf or on behalf of my estate have or may have by reason of this authorization.
General Policies
RMI's program schedule and itineraries may change based on various factors such as route conditions, weather, group strength, terrain, and other environmental factors. RMI has the full discretion to modify plans in response to these or other factors, including adjustments to program fees, schedule, itinerary, or staffing as necessary to ensure the safety and proper conduct of the program. Once a program begins, the Lead Guide will determine any changes to the itinerary, including the possibility of ending the program early if continuing poses risks to the group's safety, health, or well-being.
RMI reserves the right to cancel any program due to insufficient participation, weather, route conditions, or other reasons. In such cases, we will try to reschedule the Participant for another program date. If rescheduling is not possible, RMI will refund the Participant for all program fees paid, minus any non-refundable payments made on the Participant's behalf prior to cancellation, such as the Cost Recovery Fee and Entrance Fee paid to the National Park Service. RMI is not responsible for any non-refundable expenses incurred by the Participant in preparation for the program, such as airline tickets, hotel reservations, rental cars, or equipment purchases or rentals.
Once a program has started, no refunds or credits will be given for cancellations due to weather, route conditions, or other factors that could jeopardize the group's health, safety, or well-being. Additionally, if the Participant chooses not to begin or decides to leave the program early, no refunds or credits will be issued. The Participant will be responsible for any extra costs related to early departure, including evacuation, transportation, hotel reservations, and meals.
Program costs are offered as a package, and no refunds or credits will be provided for unused portions. The Participant acknowledges that RMI is not responsible for any travel or hospitality services provided by other companies, including airlines, hotels, rental cars, and transportation services. RMI is also not liable for any act, error, omission, injury, loss, delay, or danger caused by a travel or hospitality provider. The Participant will be responsible for any costs resulting from travel delays, missed connections, or lost baggage that require additional arrangements to rejoin the program.
