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Mt. Rainier - Crevasse Rescue School

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  • Show Trip Info

    Price
    $345 *
    Duration
    1 days
    Difficulty
    Level 1
    Type
    Skills

    *We require that all climbers and guides have received the primary COVID-19 vaccination series (1 or 2 doses depending on manufacturer) to join our programs.

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Mt. Rainier - Crevasse Rescue School

Mt. Rainier - Crevasse Rescue School

dollar sign Price

$345*

Meter Difficulty

Level 1

Clock Duration

1 days

Climber on cliff Type

Skills

Become skilled in crevasse rescue, learning the techniques needed to travel safely in glaciated terrain.

Jump To…

Our one-day Crevasse Rescue School focuses on preparing climbers for glacier travel.

SCHOOL HIGHLIGHTS

  • Setting up a rope team for effective glacier travel
  • Proper placement of snow anchors
  • Building C-pulley and Z-pulley raising systems
  • Complete rescue scenario simulations
  • Crevasse site safety
  • Crevasse self-rescue

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Throughout our day-long crevasse rescue course, we learn and discuss must-know skills and topics for all mountaineers. As a group we solve various rescue problems, with the objective of being able to perform effective and efficient crevasse rescue in the mountains. Experienced and talented guides facilitate our learning of the key skills needed for team- and self-rescue.

We recommended that you are familiar with ice axe arrest and basic rope travel skills. This course is an excellent refresher or supplementary course for anyone wanting to learn crevasse rescue techniques.

THE RMI DIFFERENCE

The Mountain Guides at RMI have a reputation as top guides in the United States. RMI Guides participated in some of America's first ventures into the far reaches of the Himalaya. Years of expedition guiding and climbing around the world have built a core of consummate professional guides.

Our guides are celebrated teachers and trainers, known for their leadership as well as their character. They possess the compassion, enthusiasm and ability to empower others and inspire them forward. Such qualities may only be found in people at the top of their profession. Despite their vast experience, RMI Guides still remember their own first steps into the mountains, and enjoy helping other climbers reach new heights.

Our exceptional focus to detail, our unparalleled level of climber attention, and our genuine excitement for these adventures make our programs truly memorable.

SAFETY

RMI strives to create the safest mountain experience possible. Our experienced team of guides focuses on leading fun and successful programs without compromising safety. Each program includes careful pre-trip planning, daily weather forecasts, avalanche forecasts, and diligent attention to detail. All RMI Guides are highly trained in remote medicine and rescue skills and carry comprehensive medical kits, rescue equipment, and radio communication equipment throughout the program. Regardless of the objective or the destination, safety remains RMI’s top priority.


NPS Authorized ConcessionerAuthorized Concessioner

RMI Expeditions is an authorized concessioner of Mount Rainier National Park.

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.

Climate Change

OffsettersAll of our climbs in Mt. Rainier National Park are 100% carbon neutral. We have partnered with Offsetters, Canada's leading carbon management solutions provider, to purchase offsets for our greenhouse gas emissions. Their projects are verified and validated by third parties to ensure that the emission reductions are real, additional, and permanent, so we know that our contribution is making a real difference.

By supporting this project, we prevent the equivalent amount of greenhouse gas emissions that were generated by our operations from being emitted somewhere else. These offsets allow us to achieve our goal of sustainability and further promote responsible environmental practices.

Contact Us

As you prepare for your upcoming adventure please feel free to contact our office and speak directly to one of our experienced guides regarding equipment, conditioning, the route, or any other questions you may have about our programs. We are available Monday thru Friday 8:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. at (888) 89-CLIMB or [email protected].


Climber Reviews

Filter By
05/25/2022
I most enjoyed learning skills I didn't even know I was missing. This course filled in a gap in my mountaineering skillset.
Steve A.

05/24/2022
The entire experience was so informative. There were 4 of us (including me) from a group I often adventure to the mountains with, so learning to work together and communicate in a new circumstance that could potentially save ours or another's life, was such a great exercise from start to finish. From the beginning, learning about equipment and knots, to digging trenches and building anchors and hauling systems, all the way to the end of the class and recapping the experience back at Basecamp.
Alissa T.

06/16/2021
We were expecting a large class size of roughly 30 students, and were shocked when we had such personal attention in a smaller group size. The guide to student ratio was fantastic.
Courtney J.

07/27/2019
Hannah and David did a great job with a very confusing topic. I have so much more clarity of knots and rope systems. Thank you!
Annette B.

05/30/2019
Thank you Bryan, Grayson, and RMI for making this level of instruction available!!!
Curtis B.

05/28/2019
I loved being up in Mt. Rainier, the views, learning how to build crevasse rescue systems, and being "rescued" from the edge of the cornice.
Christine L.

06/26/2018
The class I took was very informative, hands on and memorable. The guides were clearly very experienced, and they were also patient and kind. A+++
Rebecca A.

06/01/2018
I really felt like I got way more out of the class than I paid for. The skills I learned and were able to practice are priceless and invaluable. The class was equal parts fun and informative.
Jessica V.

05/29/2018
Both guides did a great job explaining all aspects of crevasse rescue with detailed reasoning behind each. They made the whole process fun and entertaining while demonstrating and providing useful skills in the real world.
Paul K.

06/05/2017
I enjoyed the wealth of experience that both guides brought to play, as well as, their ability to seamlessly compliment each other's instruction. The progression of skills taught was well thought out and each of us had the chance to demonstrate what we learnt. When we needed coaching, the guides took their time to ensure we knew the information correctly, challenging us when appropriate, too.
Josh B.

06/07/2016
What I enjoyed most was their ability to explain each feature taught in multiple ways so that all of us were able to digest the material.
Jeffrey L.

06/04/2016
guides handled themselves very professionally, friendly, and overall were great to be with and learn from.both were very informative, and helpful in explaining and showing what we were doing and how to do it, but not only that but put it into perspective with why would you do this or why not. loved the class, learned a lot about what i was unsure of before, look forward to being on the mountain practicing my newly acquired skills. THANK YOU MUCH!!!!
Amos S.

05/20/2016
I've attended several courses specific to belaying, ice climbing, and mountaineering. I enjoyed the fact that I still learned more- excellent execution and venue for just a single day's class.
James E.

06/12/2015
I am VERY likely to recommend the crevasse training to others. I felt this class was well worth the time, money and energy. I left with much more technical knowledge than I anticipated, as well as some practical knowledge and suggestions.
Ashley S.

06/11/2015
As with any formal course, learning from subject matter experts is what one comes to expect while in attendance. The course staff provided that, and then some by inserting relevant real-world experiences into our simple problem solving exercises. I enjoyed the hands on approach and the systematic approach to the curriculum.
Caylen W.

07/08/2014
Our instructors were very knowledgeable and attentive.
Carl C.

06/04/2014
Guides did a great job of creating a learning environment where they were working with a diverse set of skills and experiences. I found it helpful that we had the time to learn through some second effort to help iron out the details. Very hands on course that puts you in the drivers seat.
Dave G.

06/03/2014
The people.... were amazing, literally, complimented each other extremely well too. I might just take the same class again for more fun.
Jason L.

05/31/2014
Everything
JP G.

05/31/2014
Nice people, beautiful country, and valuable skills.
Scott A.

05/26/2014
The knowledge and skills gained increased my confidence and awareness. The group was great, instruction great and weather was good. "you will not find anything in the push for the summit! but, it is what finds you, that draws one to the mountain" rjw
Robert W.

05/28/2013
Learning how to make the pulley system and rope climbing.
Aaron S.

05/25/2013
Elias was great! I couldn't have asked for more in a teacher!
Brett M.

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Contents
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Contents
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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!


  • Whittaker Mountaineering 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 when they use code RMI2023 at checkout. This offer excludes sale items, rentals, meal packages, and Feathered Friends.

Shop Your Equipment List // Rent new equipment for your climb

Equipment List

Pack & Travel

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30+ LITER BACKPACK

Your backpack should be large enough to carry all of your personal gear, food and water. 

Guide Pick™

Technical Gear

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ICE AXE

The length of your axe depends on your height. Use the following general mountaineering formula: up to 5'8", use a 65 cm axe; 5'8" to 6'2", use a 70 cm axe; and taller, use a 75 cm axe. If you hold the axe so that it hangs comfortably at your side, the spike of the axe should still be a few inches above the ground.

Guide Pick™

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CLIMBING HARNESS

We recommend a comfortable, adjustable alpine climbing harness. Removable, drop seat, or adjustable leg loops are convenient for managing your clothing layers over the course of the climb and facilitate going to the bathroom. If you rent a harness, a triple-action carabiner is included.

Guide Pick™

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1 TRIPLE-ACTION LOCKING CARABINER

Used for clipping into the climbing rope. Harness rentals include this carabiner.

Guide Pick™

Image of LOCKING CARABINER(S)
1 LOCKING CARABINER(S)

Used for clipping into anchors, etc.

Guide Pick™

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3 NON-LOCKING CARABINER(S)

Used for pack ditch loop, etc.

Guide Pick™

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CRAMPONS

10-point or 12-point adjustable steel crampons with anti-balling plates designed for general mountaineering use.

Guide Pick™

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MECHANICAL ASCENDER (OPTIONAL)

For practicing fixed line travel. You guides will also provide one to practice with. Most people prefer an ascender designed for their weak hand, leaving their strong hand free to hold their ice axe. For example, a right-handed person would use a left-handed ascender.

Guide Pick™

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12 ' ACCESSORY CORD

6 mm cordelette in one continuous length OR precut into two 4' sections OR two 13.5" Sterling Hollow Block sewn loops.

Guide Pick™

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15 ' ACCESSORY CORD

7 mm cordelette in one continuous length OR one 240cm dyneema sling.


Head

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HELMET

A UIAA (Union Internationale des Associations d’Alpinisme) or CE (European Committee for Standardization) certified climbing helmet.

Guide Pick™

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WARM HAT

Wool or synthetic. It should provide warmth but also be thin enough to fit underneath a climbing helmet.

Guide Pick™


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BUFF

A Buff provides versitile head and neck protection. A neck gaiter is also acceptable.

Guide Pick™

PROTECTIVE FACE MASK(S)

Cloth or surgical face mask for use in situations where 6 feet of distance from others cannot be maintained.


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GLACIER GLASSES

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.

Guide Pick™

Hands

Each glove layer is worn separately as conditions change during the climb.

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LIGHT WEIGHT GLOVES

Light weight liner or softshell gloves. Lighter colors absorb less sunlight while still offering UV protection.

Guide Pick™

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MEDIUM WEIGHT GLOVES

Wind- and water-resistant, insulated mountain gloves.

Guide Pick™

Upper Body

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LIGHT WEIGHT BASELAYER OR SUN HOODY

Long-sleeve wool or synthetic top. Light weight, light-colored, hooded baselayers (sun hoodys) are highly recommended for sun protection.

Guide Pick™

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LIGHT WEIGHT INSULATING LAYER

One step up in warmth and bulk from a baselayer. A technical fleece makes an ideal light weight insulating layer.

Guide Pick™


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SPORTS BRA

We recommend a moisture-wicking, active-wear bra.

Guide Pick™

Lower Body


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SOFTSHELL CLIMBING PANTS

Softshell climbing pants can be worn in combination with a base layer on colder days, or alone on warmer days.

Guide Pick™

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RAIN PANTS (HARD SHELL)

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.

Guide Pick™

Image of LIGHT WEIGHT TREKKING PANTS OR SHORTS  (OPTIONAL)
LIGHT WEIGHT TREKKING PANTS OR SHORTS (OPTIONAL)

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.

Guide Pick™

Feet

SINGLE OR DOUBLE MOUNTAINEERING BOOTS

Boots are one of the most important pieces of mountaineering gear, and bringing the right pair is critical to your safety and success on Mt. Rainier. You will need one pair of boots for this climb, and the type of boot you wear will be dictated by freezing level. If the freezing level is below 10,000 feet, your guide will require the use of double boots. If the freezing level is above 10,000 feet, you may use either single or double boots. We consistently see freezing levels below 10,000 feet in April, May, June, and September, though periods of cold weather are not uncommon in July and August.

If this is your first time climbing, we highly recommend renting boots from our partner company Whittaker Mountaineering. Mountaineering boots do not break in like normal footwear so there is not much advantage in buying them unless you want to see how they feel on your feet before the climb or plan on doing more mountaineering in the future. If you rent, you can switch between single and double boots the day of your climb.


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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.

Guide Pick™

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GAITERS

A knee-length pair of gaiters, large enough to fit over your mountaineering boots. This will protect you from catching your crampon spikes on loose clothing. Not needed if using a boot with an integrated gaiter.

Guide Pick™

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PAIRS OF SOCKS

Either wool or synthetic. Whatever sock combination you are accustomed to wearing during your training or previous adventures (whether single medium weight socks, a medium weight with a liner sock, two medium weight socks together, etc.), should work just fine for this climb.

Guide Pick™

First Aid & Medications

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SMALL PERSONAL FIRST AID KIT

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, basic pain reliever, and personal medications.

Guide Pick™

Personal Items

Image of MEALS & SNACKS
MEALS & SNACKS

You are responsible for providing your own meals and snack food in town and while on Mt. Rainier. See the Food tab for suggestions and quantities.

Guide Pick™

Image of WATER BOTTLES
1 - 2 WATER BOTTLES

One-liter water bottles with wide mouths made of co-polyester (BPA-free plastic).

Guide Pick™

Image of GALLON ZIP-LOCK BAG
GALLON ZIP-LOCK BAG

This will be your personal trash bag.

Guide Pick™

Image of LARGE GARBAGE BAGS
1 LARGE GARBAGE BAGS

Heavy-duty trash compacter bags for use as waterproof pack/stuff sack liners. You can also use a a waterproof pack liner.


Image of TRAVEL SIZE HAND SANITIZER
TRAVEL SIZE HAND SANITIZER
Guide Pick™

Image of SUNSCREEN
SUNSCREEN

We recommend small tubes of SPF 30 or higher, which can be carried in pockets for easy access and to prevent freezing.

Guide Pick™

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LIP BALM

We recommend SPF 15 or higher.

Guide Pick™

Image of CAMERA (OPTIONAL)
CAMERA (OPTIONAL)

Many smartphones have excellent cameras. Action cameras, small point-and-shoots, and compact dSLRs are lightweight and work well at altitude.


Travel Clothes

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TRAVEL CLOTHES

We recommend bringing a selection of comfortable clothing to wear while traveling as well as pre- and post-trip.


Pre-Trip Checklist

Purchase travel insurance.


Arrange lodging in Ashford.


Reserve rental equipment.


Arrange transportation to Ashford.


Be in the best shape of your life!



Provided Equipment

RMI provides the following equipment for your program: climbing ropes and blue bags (for solid waste disposal). Every guide will carry a first aid kit and two-way radios.

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