85+ Liter Backpack
A technical climbing pack large enough to carry personal gear, layers, food, water, and a share of group equipment including tent portions. You will not need a separate summit pack.
6 Days
|
Skill Development
|
$3,795
|
$600
Deposit
|
Intermediate
The expedition seminar — successive camps on Rainier's largest glacier, run the way a Mt. McKinley expedition actually runs.
Day-by-day program overview.
Fitness, experience, and preparation.
Gear requirements for this program.
Meals and nutrition on the mountain.
Getting there and local logistics.
Booking, cancellations, and requirements.
Common questions, direct answers.
What climbers are saying.
A comprehensive seminar focused on developing foundational mountaineering skills in real alpine terrain.
An expedition-style ascent with successive camps that mirrors the structure of larger mountain objectives.
Climb the Emmons Glacier, Mount Rainier’s longest and largest route, from forested trail to summit crater.
The expedition style of the seminar provided hands-on experience that was invaluable for future development. Additionally, the multi day format in different locations on the mountain provided great experience for navigating in Alpine terrain.
Robb M.
The Expedition Skills Seminar – Emmons is a six-day mountaineering course that pairs focused skills instruction with a true expedition-style ascent of Mount Rainier via the Emmons Glacier. Designed for climbers preparing for larger, more remote objectives, the program emphasizes learning through movement, using the scale, duration, and complexity of the route to build durable technical foundations.
Following initial technical training and a Mountaineering Day School, the team transitions onto the Emmons route, establishing successive tented camps as the climb progresses. Instruction is integrated directly into the terrain, allowing climbers to practice and refine essential skills under increasing commitment. The seminar culminates with a summit attempt from high camp at Camp Schurman, reinforcing expedition pacing, decision-making, and systems-based climbing in a remote alpine environment.
Mount Rainier is where RMI built its reputation, and the Expedition Skills Seminar – Emmons reflects decades of experience guiding and teaching on glaciated terrain. Since 1969, RMI has developed a disciplined, systems-based approach to instruction that emphasizes judgment, consistency, and decision-making in complex alpine environments. That experience directly shapes how this seminar is structured and led.
RMI guides are professional educators as well as climbers. Throughout the seminar, instruction focuses on clear communication, repetition, and applying skills in real terrain rather than isolated practice. Climbers are supported as they move from foundational techniques into more complex situations, reinforcing skills through use rather than abstraction.
“Perfectly balanced emphasis on safety, skills building, enjoyment, and reaching the summit. All 4 guides were skillful, knowledgeable, patient, and enjoyable to climb with. The guides worked well together as a team.” — Chuck N.
Risk management on the Emmons Seminar is grounded in experience and process. Guides draw on formal training in avalanche assessment, technical rescue, and remote medicine, combined with careful planning and continuous evaluation of conditions. This allows instruction to progress while maintaining appropriate margins as the climb becomes more committing.
From expedition-style camp management to applying skills on a large, remote route, the Emmons Seminar is designed to support meaningful progression. The goal is to prepare climbers for future objectives by building confidence, competence, and sound habits in an environment that reflects the realities of expedition mountaineering.
Rainier Mountaineering, Inc. is an authorized Concessioner of the National Park Service, Department of the Interior. Rainier Mountaineering, Inc. is authorized to provide guided mountaineering services, mountaineering day school, alpine training, and guided winter activities within Mount Rainier National Park.
Address comments to:
Superintendent | Mount Rainier National Park
55210 238th Avenue East
Ashford, WA 98304
All our climbs in Mt. Rainier & Denali National Parks 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.
Develop expedition-ready mountaineering skills while completing a full glacier ascent of Mount Rainier via the Emmons Glacier. This itinerary integrates technical instruction directly into an expedition-style climb, reinforcing systems through real camp moves, terrain, and decision-making.
Ashford, WA
6 Days
1
4
14,410' / 4,392 m
Tents
12+ Hours
The Expedition Skills Seminar – Emmons is designed to build expedition-ready systems through repetition and progression on Mount Rainier’s largest glacier. Skills are introduced early, reinforced during successive camp moves, and applied under increasing scale and complexity as the team ascends the Emmons route.
By the end of the seminar, climbers will have practical experience with:
“This Emmons Seminar provided me with all the tools I need to feel comfortable climbing Denali. I feel so comfortable with rope travel and anchors because we were actually able to implement many of the tools we learned on days 1 and 2, while on the glacier.” — Kim C.
8:00 - 6:00 p.m.: Meet at 8:00 a.m. at Rainier BaseCamp in Ashford, WA. Please dress casually and bring your climbing equipment and clothing.
We begin our Technical Training Day with a welcome and introduction of team members and guides. Throughout the day, the guides provide a focused introduction to a variety of topics. These include a detailed equipment discussion and gear check; an introduction to safety practices such as use of helmets, harnesses, and avalanche transceivers; route planning and preparation, instruction regarding Leave No Trace practices and environmental considerations; and a discussion/demonstration of knots, anchors and the first steps toward understanding crevasse rescue. These skills prepare us for our adventure on Mt. Rainier and increase the likelihood of a safe, successful ascent of the mountain.
Please make your own arrangements for the day's meals and a place to stay in the Ashford area for this evening.
.jpg)
8:15 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.: Meet at 8:15 a.m. at Rainier BaseCamp. Please arrive dressed for hiking, packed with your Mountaineering Day School gear. After a team meeting a shuttle takes our group to Paradise.
The Mountaineering Day School is spent training in the field on the lower slopes of Mt. Rainier. Climbers are introduced to many skills, from the basic techniques of efficient mountain travel (rest-stepping and pressure breathing), to various safety practices including use of helmets, harnesses, and avalanche transceivers, cramponing, roped travel, ice axe arrest practice, anchors and running belays, fixed line travel, and the basics of crevasse rescue.
Please make your own arrangements for the day's meals and a place to stay in the Ashford area for this evening.
.png)
Early morning start at Rainier BaseCamp. After a quick team meeting we load the shuttle and drive to the trailhead at the White River Campground (4,400').
We hike 5 miles, climbing 3,400', to our first camp on the Inter Glacier. We pass through beautiful mature forests to Glacier Basin, where the trail narrows to a climber's track, ascending to the base of the Inter Glacier. Here, we switch to climbing boots and crampons and climb the toe of the Interglacier, to our camp at about 7,800'. As we move towards camp, we work on the foundational skills that make us more efficient and capable climbers, including pressure breathing and using the rest step, dressing appropriately for the weather and workload, kicking steps and climbing in balance on snow, and efficient pacing that allows us to climb comfortably.
We ascend the Inter Glacier and climb over the flanks of Steamboat Prow onto the heavily crevassed Emmons Glacier as we move to our high camp, Camp Schurman, 9,440'. At Camp Schurman, we have a great arena to practice additional skills, such as proper placement of snow and ice anchors, crevasse rescue simulations, and ice climbing. In the afternoon we prepare for the summit bid.
Today we put it all together and make our attempt on the summit. The Emmons-Winthrop Glacier route climbs the northern edge of the largest glacier in the lower 48 states, the Emmons Glacier. The spectacular 35-degree central ramp of the glacier offers a route by which we access the crevassed slopes of the upper mountain. We thread our way through these immense crevasses toward the summit of Mt. Rainier!
At 14,410 feet, Mt. Rainier is the highest point in Washington. The summit is spectacular with panoramic views from the Pacific to the eastern side of the Cascades when the weather is clear. A large crater dominates the summit, with steam rising out of the cavernous summit vents and the bare ground near the summit is often warm to the touch.
After reaching the summit, we descend back to Camp Schurman. The descent typically requires half the amount of time of the ascent but requires significant effort as we retrace our route down the mountain. The duration of the climb depends on many variables including snow conditions, the time of the year, the route conditions, the weather, and temperature among others. It is a long and challenging, but rewarding day!
On the final day of the program we descend to the trailhead and return to Rainier BaseCamp in Ashford. After all the gear is unpacked, we gather as a team to celebrate our adventure.
The duration of the climb depends on many variables including snow conditions, the time of year, the route conditions, the weather during our climb, the temperature, etc. Those variables often affect our arrival time to Ashford, which might vary dramatically from climb to climb. For this reason we do not recommend scheduling an airline flight before midnight on the last day of your program.
This climb requires excellent physical conditioning and the ability to carry heavy loads in steep, glaciated terrain for multiple days.
No prior technical climbing experience is required, but climbers must be prepared for long days of learning in complex alpine environments.
The seminar culminates in a summit attempt above 14,000 feet, requiring the ability to perform for extended periods at high elevation.
The Expedition Skills Seminar – Emmons is open to climbers in excellent physical condition who are ready for a demanding, expedition-style mountaineering experience. There are no technical climbing prerequisites to join this program, and instruction is built into the climb. However, the physical demands are significant and increase as the expedition progresses.
“I like that the guides on our seminar provided direction but did not hold people's hands. The course was set up in a way that prepared the group for more advanced objectives.” — William C.
Climbers should be prepared for steep hiking, glacier travel, and climbing while carrying heavy loads, including personal equipment, food, and a share of group gear. This seminar emphasizes endurance, resilience, and the ability to perform consistently over multiple days in alpine terrain. Arriving well trained directly affects your ability to learn, contribute to the team, and manage the demands of the expedition.
Recommended climbing experiences include:
Your climbing resumé should include:
Strong uphill hiking endurance with a loaded pack
Comfort carrying 50 to 60 lb loads for sustained climbs
Ability to perform on long days, including a 12+ hour summit effort
Willingness to learn and apply technical mountaineering skills in real terrain
Physical and mental stamina for a multi-day expedition format
Items marked with an Asterix (*) are considered mandatory prerequisites for this program.
Mountaineering places sustained demands on your body and your ability to stay composed under effort. Even very fit people find that moving uphill with weight, for long hours, in variable weather is a different kind of challenge than most everyday training.
Preparation matters. Fitness directly affects how well you move, how much you learn, how the team functions, and how enjoyable the experience is overall.
Start early. Begin training well in advance of your program with the goal of arriving rested, resilient, and confident in your capacity for sustained effort.
Train intentionally. Emphasize aerobic endurance, uphill movement, and strength that supports long days on your feet. Core stability, balance, and mobility all play an important role in efficiency and injury prevention.
Train specifically. The closer you get to your program date, the more your training should resemble the demands of mountaineering: hiking uphill with weight, moving steadily for hours, and recovering well enough to do it again the next day.
Across RMI programs, strong preparation typically means being comfortable with long days of continuous movement, carrying a pack appropriate to the objective, and maintaining focus and decision-making when tired. Technical skills are taught or reviewed as appropriate to each program, but fitness is something you bring with you.
Nothing contributes more to a successful and rewarding experience than arriving well prepared. Plan to be in excellent physical condition and ready for a demanding day in the mountains.
Total Hiking Time
Elevation Gain / Loss
Total Distance
Pack Weight
DAY 1
n/a
n/a
n/a
n/a
DAY 2
2 - 2 ½ Hours Round Trip
Gain = 1000' | Loss = 1000'
4 Miles Round Trip
20 - 25 lbs
DAY 3
4 - 5 hours
Gain = 3,400'
5 Miles
50 - 60 lbs
DAY 4
3 Hours
Gain = 1,640'
2 Miles
50 - 60 lbs
DAY 5
12 + Hours Round Trip
Gain = 5,000' | Loss = 5,000'
8 Miles Round Trip
20 - 25 lbs
DAY 6
3 Hours
Loss = 5,000'
7 Miles
50 - 60 lbs
Our guides have decades of experience training for alpine objectives, and we've done our best to put together relevant resources to help you with your expedition preparation.
Climbing Rainier takes more than fitness—build the mindset, skills, and altitude strategy you need for success on and off the mountain.
Rainier
Learn what it takes to climb Mount Rainier, from crampon skills to glacier travel. Explore route options, training tips, and expert advice.
Rainier
Learn what works from a climber who successfully trained for Mt. Rainier with practical tips and preparation advice. Read the full article.
Fitness & Training
Strengthen your mountaineering training with a community of like-minded climbers who motivate and share the journey. Join us and explore.
Rainier
Develop your aerobic base for endurance, strength, and performance in alpine environments with RMI’s expert guidance. Level up your training today.
Fitness & Training
Fueling Long-Duration Climbs with Enhanced Fat Metabolism
Fitness & Training
A Comprehensive Guide to Crafting Your Own Progressive, Goal-Oriented Program
Fitness & Training
Acclimatization is the process by which your body adjusts to lower oxygen levels at altitude. How well this happens has a direct impact on how you feel, how you perform, and how much margin you have as the climb progresses.
Program length and structure matter. Longer expeditions are designed with ascent profiles that allow your body more time to adapt. Shorter programs often move through altitude faster than the body can fully adjust. In these cases, climbers typically experience mild but normal symptoms associated with early acclimatization rather than full adaptation. This is expected and accounted for in program design.
Physical conditioning plays a major role. Well-conditioned climbers generally have more energy available to support the acclimatization process over consecutive days. Fitness does not prevent altitude exposure, but it improves resilience, recovery, and the ability to function well while your body is adapting.
How you take care of yourself matters just as much as the itinerary. Arriving healthy and rested, staying well hydrated, eating consistently, and managing heat loss all support acclimatization and performance. These factors become increasingly important as altitude, duration, and cumulative fatigue increase.
RMI programs are structured to balance objective goals with appropriate acclimatization strategies for the terrain and timeframe involved. Individual responses to altitude vary, but strong preparation and good self-care remain the most reliable ways to support a positive experience at elevation.
Mountaineering is both an individual challenge and a team endeavor. Before any program begins, RMI works directly with prospective climbers to confirm that everyone joining a team is genuinely prepared for the demands ahead. Depending on the program, this may involve conversations with our office staff, a review of your climbing history, or feedback from guides and other climbers who know your abilities. The goal is straightforward: to ensure that every person on the rope belongs there. We ask that each climber hold themselves to the same standard:
The standards we set exist to protect everyone on the team. RMI holds all climbers accountable to them, and we take seriously our responsibility to build teams of people who are ready to be in the mountains together. RMI reserves the right to remove a participant from a program or send them to a lower altitude if our guide staff determines, in their sole discretion, that the participant is not physically, technically, or psychologically prepared or capable of participating, or for any other reason that may compromise the safety, health, or well-being of the participant or the group. In such cases, no refunds or credits will be issued, and the participant will be financially responsible for any additional costs associated with an early departure, including evacuation, transportation, lodging, and meals.
The Expedition Skills Seminar – Emmons requires a full expedition-style mountaineering equipment kit designed for extended travel on glaciers, sustained load carries, and variable alpine weather. Climbers will be moving through complex terrain over multiple days while carrying personal equipment, food, and a portion of group gear.
While experienced mountaineers may approach their kits slightly differently, the required equipment list for the Expedition Skills Seminar – Emmons is built from decades of guiding and instructional experience on Mount Rainier. Each item reflects the demands of expedition-style climbing, technical skill development, weather exposure, and elevation. Not every piece of equipment may be used on a given climb, but all required items must be brought to the mountain for gear check. Hope for the best, prepare for the worst.
Each RMI program includes a required personal equipment list built around the specific terrain, conditions, and objectives of the climb. Every item serves a purpose and supports safety, efficiency, and comfort in the mountains.
Guide Picks™ are examples that meet our performance standards and illustrate the type of gear we recommend. Each year, our partners at Whittaker Mountaineering survey our staff of 70+ guides to get a consensus on the best gear for the job. You do not need to purchase the exact item shown, but any alternative must offer comparable function and durability.
All listed items are required for the gear check. Final adjustments may be recommended by your guide based on conditions and team needs once the expedition begins.
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.
We recommend a bag rated between 20° and 0° F. Allow ample room for movement. We recommend down over synthetic for its light weight, warmth, and packability. If you know you sleep cold, consider a 0° F bag.
10- or 12-point adjustable steel crampons with anti-balling plates for general mountaineering and glacier travel. Automatic, semi-automatic, or strap-on attachment depending on boot compatibility. Ensure crampons are compatible with your specific boots before your program.
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.
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.
A lightweight, breathable long-sleeve shirt in synthetic or merino wool for sun protection and moisture management during active climbing.
One step up in warmth and bulk from a baselayer. A technical fleece makes an ideal light weight insulating layer.
An insulated jacket or softshell for warmth during low-output activity and extended rest breaks. Should fit over baselayers and midlayers, and under a shell.
An expedition-style down parka that extends below the waist with an insulated hood, designed to fit over all other layers. Worn primarily in camp, during rest breaks, and on summit day. Down fill recommended over synthetic.
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.
Lightweight synthetic or merino wool baselayer bottoms for moisture management and temperature regulation during active climbing.
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.
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.
Lightweight approach shoes or trail runners for hiking on rugged terrain and use as camp shoes. Particularly useful after snowmelt on lower-elevation approaches.
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.
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.
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.
You are responsible for providing your own meals and snack food in town and while on your program. See the Food tab for suggestions and quantities.
Disposable or reusable ear plugs for sleeping in shared tent or hut accommodations.
Spare prescription glasses if you wear contact lenses/eyeglasses.
Many smartphones have excellent cameras. Action cameras, small point-and-shoots, and compact dSLRs are lightweight and work well at altitude.
A small power bank, enough to charge a phone or e-reader several times.
We recommend bringing a selection of clothing to wear while traveling, sightseeing and dining.
Purchase travel insurance.
Arrange lodging in Ashford.
Be in the best shape of your life!
RMI provides the following equipment for your program: tents, group cooking gear, shovels, climbing ropes, and blue bags (for solid waste disposal).
Every guide on your climb will carry rescue equipment and a first aid kit. Each climb has two-way radios and a cell phone for emergency contact.
Heavy-duty trash compacter bags for use as waterproof pack/stuff sack liners. You can also use a waterproof pack liner.
Please bring 10 gallon-size bags and 10 quart-size bags. These are used to protect various items from the rain as well as serve as personal trash bags.
Arrange transportation and lodging - see more on the Travel tab.
On the Expedition Skills Seminar - Emmons you will need five days of climbing food, including five mountain lunches, three dinners, and three breakfasts while on the mountain.
Don't want to plan out your food for your RMI climb? Whittaker Mountaineering has optimized Meal Packages that include everything you need for your Rainier summit attempt.
Nutrition while training and nutrition while climbing are two very different things. You may follow a pretty specific nutrition regimen while you are training to aid your desired outcomes, but once it comes to the climb, calories are what count the most. While climbing, you are trying to maximize energy and performance over a short period of time.
Our food priorities when climbing are:
Caloric requirements will vary widely from climber to climber based on physical size and metabolism. It is important for you to know what your body requires. One of the normal, albeit disconcerting, adjustments to altitude is a slight loss of appetite. Bring food you enjoy. If you don't love a food at home, you certainly won't like it on the mountain!
At camp, hot and cold water will be provided for your meals, drinks, and refilling water bottles. When planning your menu, don't bring any items that require extensive preparation, cooking, or simmering. We are able to provide you with boiling water but do not have the ability to actually cook food items.
Things to keep in mind as you plan your meals:
Consider repacking items into smaller Ziploc bags to minimize the space in your pack. Your food will get crammed into your backpack, jostled around, exposed to extreme temperatures, and even sat on (by you, of course!). What holds up better in these conditions, two slices of bread or a bagel? When packing, it is essential to consider the waste you will produce on the climb; after all, you have to carry it off the mountain. We've already mentioned repacking items to minimize space. Repacking items can also eliminate waste!
Mountain lunches, aka snacks, are eaten during short breaks throughout the day. We continually snack to keep our energy levels up while we climb. We typically take rest breaks every hour or so to adjust our clothing layers, eat, and hydrate. Avoid packing any items that require preparation or hot water at each break. In terms of quantity, aim to bring 1 lb. of climbing food per day. We suggest using snack or sandwich size Ziploc bags to portion out snack food.
The importance of having foods that you genuinely enjoy cannot be overstated. Eating properly is the key to maintaining strength while in the mountains. To combat the loss of appetite at altitude, we aim to have a variety of foods that stimulate the whole palate, from sweet to sour to salty. Here are some ideas but be sure to see the sample menu and packing list below for more ideas!
PRO TIP: Feel fancy! Charcuterie (cured meat, cheese, and crackers) makes a great mountain lunch!
Single-serving instant oatmeal, Cream-of-Wheat, or granola make a good main course fare. A variety of granola bars, pastries, fruit, and a hot drink mix of coffee, tea, cocoa, or cider are suggested. Plan on eating a breakfast that tastes good, and you find filling. Here are some ideas but be sure to see the sample menu and packing list below for more ideas!
PRO TIP: Think outside the box. Peanut butter and jelly sandwiches (on bagels) or ramen make great breakfast options!
This meal will give your body the initial fuel it needs during your summit attempt. Spend time considering your options so that you go to bed nourished and ready for the climb ahead of you. Freeze-dried entrees are very convenient mountain dinners. Pay attention to the caloric quantity – it varies from meal to meal. Here are some ideas but be sure to see the sample menu and packing list below for more ideas!
PRO TIP: Have a tasting party of freeze-dried entrees to test them out before your climb.
Staying hydrated on the climb is crucial. You will have access to ample cold water while at camp for drinking and replenishing water bottles. When you are climbing, you will want to ration how much water you drink at each rest break to ensure you have water throughout the entirety of your climb. You can expect breaks to occur approximately every hour or so of climbing.
Just as with food, it is important to have a variety of things to drink that excite your taste buds. You may love water, but it may not sound good at 10,000'! Drink mixes such as Gatorade, Kool-Aid, Liquid IV, Nuun, etc., are great for flavor. Hot beverage options are also an important component to consider while at camp. Instant coffee, tea, cocoa, and cider are great ways to warm up in the evening before bed, when you wake up for your alpine start on summit day, and to recharge once back at camp.
PRO TIP: Skip the water bladder and practice rationing your water while training.
This is an example of what someone may eat for each meal on the Expedition Skills Seminar - Emmons. Use this to guide and inspire your own meal planning.
Altitude often changes appetite. Bring food you know you can eat when tired, cold, or not very hungry. Variety helps, but simplicity wins. If you are unsure about food choices or quantities, this is an excellent topic to review during your gear check.
This page covers the practical details you’ll want to review before your trip, including travel logistics, entry requirements, local considerations, and required policies. Taking time to understand these details ahead of departure helps ensure a smoother experience once you’re on the ground and focused on the climb.
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].
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: Every air traveler 18 years of age and older needs 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.
All our Mt. Rainier programs begin at Rainier BaseCamp in Ashford. All Mt. Rainier climbs, seminars, and schools include transportation and park entry for our climbers from Rainier BaseCamp to Paradise or to the White River Entrance.
You may also go to VisitRainier.com to search for accommodations in the Ashford Area.
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:
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 Travel Insurance covers the following critical benefits:
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.
RMI has partnered with Erin Rountree to provide travel planning support. Erin is an independent agent with extensive experience booking travel for adventure programs worldwide and understands the specific needs of RMI expeditions.
Phone: (208) 788-2870
Email: [email protected]
It is your responsibility to ensure that your travel insurance policy provides appropriate coverage for your specific program and activities. Review policy details carefully before purchasing, and confirm coverage well in advance of your departure.
For updated Mt. Rainier weather forecasts, click here. Please click on the links below to see the Mt. Rainier webcams:
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.
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 an active volcano; its most recent confirmed eruptive activity was in the 1890s.
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.
The following policies are applicable for this expedition.
Rainier Mountaineering, Inc. reserves the right to modify the land cost of a trip at any time before departure.
Deposit Payments: A non-refundable deposit of $600 per person is required to secure your reservation.
Balance Payments: The remaining balance is due 120 days before your program's start date.
*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.
The $600 deposit is non-refundable and non-transferable.
We do not offer refunds. Please remember this before registering for this program. Due to the time-sensitive nature of this program, no exceptions will be made to the cancellation policy.
We highly recommend travel insurance for this trip. Please see our Travel Tab for details.
Date changes are subject to availability and can only be applied to the current climbing season. Changes must be requested at least 90 days before the departure date and will incur a $200 fee per person. No date changes are allowed within 90 days of departure.
Please clearly understand that mountaineering is inherently hazardous. 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 or 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 risks and hazards of mountaineering and make their own choices about whether or not to engage in this activity.
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:
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.
RMI cannot guarantee that you will reach the summit. Weather, route conditions, your own abilities, or the abilities of other climbers may create circumstances that make an ascent unsafe, and you or your entire group may have to turnaround without reaching the summit.
Failure to reach the summit due to a person’s own lack of fitness or to any of the events associated with mountaineering (such as weather, route conditions, avalanche hazard, team dynamics, etc.), are not Rainier Mountaineering, Inc.’s responsibility and will not result in a refund, credit, or reschedule.
Rainier Mountaineering, Inc. (RMI) does not tolerate harassment or mistreatment of our participants or employees. Inappropriate conduct under this policy may include conduct that creates a disrespectful, intimidating, hostile, degrading, humiliating, or offensive environment for a participant or employee. Engaging in such conduct is a violation of this policy.
RMI may consider conduct to violate the policy even if it falls short of unlawful harassment under applicable law. When determining whether conduct violates this policy, we will consider whether a reasonable person could conclude that the conduct created an intimidating, hostile, degrading, or demeaning environment.
Violation of this policy may result in removal from a program, as well as refusal to provide services indefinitely. We place the utmost value on the safety of our participants and employees. Please report any incidents to RMI management.
All participants must be 18 years old at the time of registration.
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:
RMI’s program schedule and itineraries are subject to change or adjustment based on a number of factors. These include, but are not limited to, route conditions, weather, group strength, terrain, or other environmental factors, and many other factors. RMI has complete discretion to change plans to accommodate any of these or other factors, including but not limited to, increases in program fees, changes to program schedule or itinerary, and changes to guides or staff, as necessary for the proper and safe conduct of the program. Once the program has started, the Lead Guide will decide on any changes to the itinerary, including ending the program early if the continuation of the program may compromise the safety, health, or well-being of the group.
We reserve the right to cancel any program due to inadequate signups, weather, route conditions, or for any other reason. In such a case, we will make every effort to reschedule the Participant on a different program date. If rescheduling is not possible, we will issue the Participant a refund for all program fees paid to RMI, less any non-refundable payments made on behalf of the Participant to secure any of the included land costs provided for this program, including but not limited to, hotel accommodations, transportation, transfers, tours, group equipment and food, permits, and local outfitter services, prior to the cancellation of the program. Additionally, RMI cannot be responsible for any non-refundable expenses the Participant incurred in preparation for the program (i.e., airline tickets, hotel reservations, rental cars, equipment purchases or rentals, etc.).
Once a program begins, there are no refunds or credits for weather-related cancellations or for a program that may end early due to weather, route conditions, or any other circumstances that may compromise the health, safety, or well-being of the group. Furthermore, if the Participant decides for any reason not to begin a program or discontinue a program at any time, no refunds or credits will be issued. The Participant will be responsible for all additional costs associated with an early departure, including but not limited to evacuation, transportation, hotel reservations, meals, etc.
Land Costs are provided as a package, and refunds or credits will not be issued for any unused meals, accommodations, group transportation, or other unused costs. Accommodations are based on double occupancy. A Single Supplement Fee will be charged to those Participants occupying single accommodations either by choice or circumstance. If you are willing to share a room, we will make every effort to pair you with another same-gender team member. We will match willing same-gender team members based on the order of registration date. If we are unable to match you with another same- gender team member, a single supplement fee will be charged. The availability of single accommodations is limited in most of the hotels where we stay, and single accommodations are not available while in the mountains.
The Participant understands and agrees that RMI assumes no responsibility or liability in connection with any travel and hospitality services provided to the Participant by other companies in connection with the program, including but not limited to, the services provided by airlines, hotels, rental cars, and transportation companies. In addition, RMI is not responsible for any act, error, omission, or any injury, loss, accident, delay, irregularity, or danger by a supplier of travel or hospitality services to the Participant in connection with the RMI program. The Participant will be responsible for all costs associated with any travel delays, missed connections, or missing baggage that requires additional arrangements (separate transportation, hotel accommodations, meals, etc.) to be made on your behalf for you or your baggage to rejoin the program.
This FAQ covers common questions about the Expedition Skills Seminar – Emmons, including logistics, physical demands, instructional focus, route characteristics, and how decisions are made on the mountain. If you’re evaluating this seminar as a training-focused alternative to a standard Rainier climb, these answers are intended to help you understand what the experience involves and how to prepare.
“Loved the experience from signing up to be notified of openings of trips, to the communication from the team as the trip got closer.” — David D.
The climber-to-guide ratio is 2:1 on the Emmons Glacier route. This ratio supports instruction, rope team management, and decision-making throughout the seminar.
Climbers entering the park in a personal vehicle should consult the National Park Service for current entrance fees and reservation requirements.
You should arrive in excellent physical condition and prepared for multiple days of sustained effort. The seminar involves steep hiking, glacier travel, and long days while carrying heavy loads, and fitness has a direct impact on learning, performance, and overall experience.
Pack weights are heavier than on standard Rainier climbs. Climbers should expect to carry 50 to 60 lb loads on approach and carry days, with lighter packs on summit day. Comfort carrying heavy loads uphill for extended periods is essential.
Guides monitor climbers throughout the seminar and may adjust pacing, provide coaching, or modify plans to maintain appropriate risk management for the team. The instructional format allows guides to address challenges as they arise, but climbers must be capable of sustaining the physical demands of the program.
The Emmons Glacier route is longer, more remote, and less traveled. It involves successive camps, extended glacier travel, and sustained endurance over multiple days, making it well suited for expedition-style learning rather than a single high-camp ascent.
Summit day is a long and demanding effort that begins from high camp at Camp Schurman. Climbers travel roped on glaciers, manage complex terrain, and move steadily for many hours as a team. Conditions and timing vary based on weather and route conditions.
Summit day typically begins very early in the morning to take advantage of firmer snow conditions and more stable weather.
The scale and continuity of the Emmons Glacier provide repeated opportunities to practice technical skills in context. Its terrain supports hands-on instruction in glacier travel, anchors, rescue systems, and camp management throughout the ascent.
Mount Rainier creates its own weather. Climbers should be prepared for a wide range of conditions, including wind, cold temperatures, precipitation, and rapid changes in visibility.
There are three main categories that generally prevent climbers from reaching the summit: weather, route conditions, and individual fitness.
Weather
Avalanche hazards, high winds, poor visibility, rain, and snow can singly or in conjunction with other elements impact our ability to safely climb. Your guides are charged with managing the risks encountered on the climb and maintaining a reasonable margin of safety.
If weather conditions reduce our margin of safety to an unacceptable level, we will no longer be able to climb. This may mean we turn around, or we may not even ascend above camp.
The Route
On Mt. Rainier, guides work on the route continually throughout the climbing season. Route work involves rerouting to avoid hazards, including overhead hazards such as icefall and rockfall and underfoot hazards such as crevasses and steep slopes.
As the route becomes more complex and steeper throughout the season, route work can include kicking steps, chopping, shoveling, and setting running belays. Some changes occur daily and may require quick adjustments by the guide team during a climb. Larger reroutes can take multiple days to establish and often involve coordination among guide services on the mountain.
A route that remains technically passable may still not offer an appropriate margin of safety for guided climbers. When this happens, guide services coordinate efforts to establish a safer route. While route work is underway, we will ascend with climbers as high as is safely possible on the existing route.
Fitness
Fitness is the factor climbers have the most control over and the one with the greatest impact on success, safety, and enjoyment. Mountaineering requires physical stamina and mental toughness, even for very fit individuals.
Rope teams move at a steady pace determined by the route’s length and complexity. We do not operate fast or slow rope teams. Improving fitness is the most effective way to increase your chances of a successful summit attempt.
Guides continuously assess weather, route conditions, and team performance. Decisions are based on maintaining a reasonable margin of safety for the entire group.
The guide team makes final decisions on the mountain. These decisions are made with climber safety as the top priority.
Guides are trained in remote medicine and rescue techniques and carry appropriate medical and communication equipment. In the event of illness or injury, guides manage the situation based on severity and conditions, which may include descent or evacuation if necessary.
An Expedition Skills Seminar is instructional by design. Rather than focusing solely on reaching the summit, time is intentionally built into the climb for learning and practicing skills in real terrain. Instruction is integrated throughout the ascent, allowing climbers to actively apply techniques such as glacier travel, rope team management, anchor building, crevasse rescue, belaying, fixed line travel, and expedition-style camp systems.
Yes. The Expedition Skills Seminar – Emmons is designed to prepare climbers for larger, more complex objectives. The expedition structure, load carries, technical instruction, and emphasis on endurance closely mirror the demands of major glaciated peaks and provide a strong foundation for future expeditions.
Both travel the Emmons Glacier, but they are built for different goals. The Five Day Emmons Climb is a summit-focused ascent. This six-day seminar treats the summit as one part of a broader curriculum — load carries, camp craft, glacier travel and expedition systems taught across successive camps. Choose the climb if the summit is the objective; choose the seminar if you want to run expeditions of your own afterwards.
We run four Expedition Skills Seminars on Mount Rainier, and they are built for different climbers. Paradise is the foundational course — start here if you are new to glaciated mountaineering, with no prior technical experience required. Camp Muir is the immersion course, with four nights at 10,080 feet in the hut RMI has to itself, living at altitude rather than commuting to it. Emmons is the expedition course — the big remote glacier, successive camps, and the closest thing on Rainier to how a Mt. McKinley expedition actually runs. Kautz is the technical course, on steep snow and ice through the Kautz Ice Chute, for climbers ready for the next skill tier. If you are unsure which fits, call us — we would rather place you correctly than sell you the wrong week.
When you've been in business since 1969, you pick up a thing or two about mountains you guide. Below are the resources relevant to this program, but you can check out our full Resources section for all of our hard earned knowledge.
Get expert gear advice for climbing Mount Rainier—from layers to crampons to stoves. Learn what to bring, how to test it, and what to rent.
Rainier
Learn what it takes to climb Mount Rainier, from crampon skills to glacier travel. Explore route options, training tips, and expert advice.
Rainier
Plan your food for Mount Rainier with this expert guide to calories, snacks, and hydration for summit success. Start planning your adventure.
Rainier
Climbing Rainier takes more than fitness—build the mindset, skills, and altitude strategy you need for success on and off the mountain.
Rainier
Early, peak, or late season, learn what to expect when climbing Mount Rainier at different times of year and how to prepare for changing conditions.
Rainier
Climbers rated RMI with an average of 5 stars across 0 ratings
Read reviews from climbers who have completed the Expedition Skills Seminar – Emmons with RMI. These firsthand accounts highlight the instructional depth, expedition-style structure, and on-mountain experience of learning and applying mountaineering skills on Mount Rainier’s largest glacier.
August 8, 2026
Expedition Skills Seminar - Emmons
I enjoyed meeting people that have a passion about the outdoors and experiences that I would enjoy as well. Sharing that passion with others really helps deepen my desire to continue knowledge and growth in the sport.
Craig R
August 8, 2026
I enjoyed meeting people that have a passion about the outdoors and experiences that I would enjoy as well. Sharing that passion with others really helps deepen my desire to continue knowledge and growth in the sport.
Additional Comments
Limited interaction with this staff overall, it was a good experience. The website had lots of information, however it was scattered around so it took a while to fully digest and ensure that I wasn't reading conflicting details. Emails provided a good summary and sometimes linked to the correct information that I wanted to find, but again required digging through the website to dig deeper for my own personal knowledge. The equipment list was very comprehensive and encompassed all weather possible conditions. It was challenging bringing gear that I knew I would not need based on our weather, but I appreciate the safety that are my places on all of their guided trips.
Additional Comments
Overall, transportation directions and information provided once on site was very comprehensive and helpful. The guides were extremely knowledgeable and provided direct insight to what we needed and that made me feel more comfortable once I had arrived.
What did you enjoy most?
I enjoyed meeting people that have a passion about the outdoors and experiences that I would enjoy as well. Sharing that passion with others really helps deepen my desire to continue knowledge and growth in the sport.
What needs improvement?
Overall, I felt like the program was a great experience. We accomplished something. Dad was not guaranteed and we learned a lot as a team together and as individuals. I feel like something that we could have improved upon would be more guide specific direction prior to arriving as Ashford has limited resources if we do not bring everything necessary and the kitchen sink.
July 31, 2026
Expedition Skills Seminar - Emmons
Ice climbing out of a crevasse and learning mountaineering skills!
Matthew H
July 31, 2026
Ice climbing out of a crevasse and learning mountaineering skills!
Additional Comments
Professional and a natural leader. Really glad I had him as our lead guide!
What did you enjoy most?
Ice climbing out of a crevasse and learning mountaineering skills!
What needs improvement?
nothing. was great
July 23, 2026
Expedition Skills Seminar - Emmons
Guides are super friendly and knowledgeable
Anqi (Angel) C
July 23, 2026
Guides are super friendly and knowledgeable
Additional Comments
Nick is amazing. Super organized and planned everything well.
What did you enjoy most?
Guides are super friendly and knowledgeable
July 23, 2026
Expedition Skills Seminar - Emmons
I enjoyed pushing myself and meeting others. Accomplishing a goal is always fun but it’s more fun to do it with like minded people, which was the case here
Shane Y
July 23, 2026
I enjoyed pushing myself and meeting others. Accomplishing a goal is always fun but it’s more fun to do it with like minded people, which was the case here
Additional Comments
Nick is definitely the most impressive climber I’ve ever met. He’s extremely well spoken and calm regardless of the situation. I would choose nick to be my guide on any climb I take on in the future.
Additional Comments
Nick doubles as a great van driver
What did you enjoy most?
I enjoyed pushing myself and meeting others. Accomplishing a goal is always fun but it’s more fun to do it with like minded people, which was the case here
July 19, 2026
Expedition Skills Seminar - Emmons
Practicing skills in the alpine environment. Pushing myself and having a wonderful team to allow for my growth.
Christopher W
July 19, 2026
Practicing skills in the alpine environment. Pushing myself and having a wonderful team to allow for my growth.
Additional Comments
I have been on 5 RMI guided trips and Jackson is a standout! He communicates very effectively and managed the team with ease. I would love to have him guide me in the future.
What did you enjoy most?
Practicing skills in the alpine environment. Pushing myself and having a wonderful team to allow for my growth.
What needs improvement?
Increased summit windows to allow for weather variability.
July 13, 2026
Expedition Skills Seminar - Emmons
FANTASTIC EXPERIENCE! WOULD RECOMMEND TO EVERYONE AND COME AGAIN!
Meredith B
July 13, 2026
FANTASTIC EXPERIENCE! WOULD RECOMMEND TO EVERYONE AND COME AGAIN!
Additional Comments
Truly amazing! Felt so safe with him. His pace was fantastic. He was a wonderful head guide.
Additional Comments
Everything was great! The equipment list could have been slightly more clear (why we needed/use of rope, carabiners, traction pulley device), but otherwise it was great!
Additional Comments
PERFECT!
What did you enjoy most?
THE PEOPLE!
What needs improvement?
Give guests access to each others' contact info earlier on?
July 12, 2026
Expedition Skills Seminar - Emmons
The guides made the trip. I truly enjoyed the group of climbers and guides we had, and it truly made the experience special.
Travis W
July 12, 2026
The guides made the trip. I truly enjoyed the group of climbers and guides we had, and it truly made the experience special.
Additional Comments
Joe is easily one of the best teachers I’ve ever had. He makes sure to always tie things back to their cause or intent. Everything is explained in simple terms and easy to understand. An excellent guide all around.
What did you enjoy most?
The guides made the trip. I truly enjoyed the group of climbers and guides we had, and it truly made the experience special.
July 11, 2026
Expedition Skills Seminar - Emmons
The whole team sitting around the kitchen just talking. It felt like we had been friends for a long time.
Eric N
July 11, 2026
The whole team sitting around the kitchen just talking. It felt like we had been friends for a long time.
Additional Comments
Joe Crawford was the perfect person to lead this trip. He has abundance knowledge and can help clients overcome fears.
Additional Comments
The equipment list was exactly correct.
Additional Comments
Continue the great work.
What did you enjoy most?
The whole team sitting around the kitchen just talking. It felt like we had been friends for a long time.
What needs improvement?
Nothing, I left that feeling satisfied on all fronts.
July 3, 2026
Expedition Skills Seminar - Emmons
The people. On the clients - going in, four climbers knew each other from past trips and coordinated on doing this seminar. Six climbers made it to Schurman and one was a cute older man (70 yrs old!) and the other was our age (Cristen). The four of us absorbed Cristen into our crew and plan on doing more RMI adventures with her. I've done four other RMI trips - the DC, Baker, Glacier, and Cotopaxi. Each long trip (Glacier, Cotopaxti, and now Emmons) we've built a community of clients who want to climb to together and relationships with the guides.That's really special. On the guides - RMI guides are world class. I met Mike Bennett when he was training and now he's lead teams to Everest twice. I know Mike wasn't here - but my point is that trajectory doesn't shock me. Sam, Margo, Matt, and Kat are all exceptional world class guides and I can see them being brilliant leaders anywhere. RMI also has a safety focused mission and as someone who has climbed with a handful of other services, this mission is clearly a commitment and not just marketing. Your guides are what makes RMI special.
Joseph M
July 3, 2026
The people. On the clients - going in, four climbers knew each other from past trips and coordinated on doing this seminar. Six climbers made it to Schurman and one was a cute older man (70 yrs old!) and the other was our age (Cristen). The four of us absorbed Cristen into our crew and plan on doing more RMI adventures with her. I've done four other RMI trips - the DC, Baker, Glacier, and Cotopaxi. Each long trip (Glacier, Cotopaxti, and now Emmons) we've built a community of clients who want to climb to together and relationships with the guides.That's really special. On the guides - RMI guides are world class. I met Mike Bennett when he was training and now he's lead teams to Everest twice. I know Mike wasn't here - but my point is that trajectory doesn't shock me. Sam, Margo, Matt, and Kat are all exceptional world class guides and I can see them being brilliant leaders anywhere. RMI also has a safety focused mission and as someone who has climbed with a handful of other services, this mission is clearly a commitment and not just marketing. Your guides are what makes RMI special.
Additional Comments
Sam is phenomenal. He's a great leader, great instructor, and an empathetic and fun person. Sam also goes way above and beyond for the team and preaches safety (systems must be unquestionably strong!). When we ran into complex terrain, Sam synced with Margo and told us he would prepare a way around the challenge. When he came back, I joked that I expected a beautiful lined with LED lights. It was basically that nice and secure. This path amazed every client and demonstrated the level of commitment our guides have to our safety. (On summit day Sam was my rope team leader).
Additional Comments
Ezra at the rental shop!! The moment I stepped in he said - oh I called your for the transceiver rental for Cotopaxi! How does he remember that? Another client who is a friend said they've been to the rental place so much they just do everything Ezra says lol. Also the office team is great to call and ask various questions about the trip.
Additional Comments
RMI is the best.
What did you enjoy most?
The people. On the clients - going in, four climbers knew each other from past trips and coordinated on doing this seminar. Six climbers made it to Schurman and one was a cute older man (70 yrs old!) and the other was our age (Cristen). The four of us absorbed Cristen into our crew and plan on doing more RMI adventures with her. I've done four other RMI trips - the DC, Baker, Glacier, and Cotopaxi. Each long trip (Glacier, Cotopaxti, and now Emmons) we've built a community of clients who want to climb to together and relationships with the guides.That's really special. On the guides - RMI guides are world class. I met Mike Bennett when he was training and now he's lead teams to Everest twice. I know Mike wasn't here - but my point is that trajectory doesn't shock me. Sam, Margo, Matt, and Kat are all exceptional world class guides and I can see them being brilliant leaders anywhere. RMI also has a safety focused mission and as someone who has climbed with a handful of other services, this mission is clearly a commitment and not just marketing. Your guides are what makes RMI special.
What needs improvement?
Hah so I don't know how this would go but it'd be nice to to a debrief with clients individually. Now that may be terrifying so it might be a bad idea.
July 3, 2026
Expedition Skills Seminar - Emmons
Thanks so much for an incredible experience!
Allie M
July 3, 2026
Thanks so much for an incredible experience!
Additional Comments
Sam was amazing! He is wise beyond his years. He was a great sport about our silly group jokes - chiming in but also helping us get to business when needed. I'm amazed he's only 25! He's a natural leader, helped inspire confidence, joy & enthusiasm. We were blown away when he built us a "rainbow road" to get through some interesting crevasses. It was a blast to see how passionate he is.
Additional Comments
Only critique is that the equipment list was a little unclear about slings, vs cordelette, etc. The group struggled a bit to understand what we ended up needing.. we didn't end up needing those so in hindsight if we could rely on the guides' equipment, I'd remove those and just include the carabiners.
What did you enjoy most?
Everything!
June 21, 2026
Expedition Skills Seminar - Emmons
I enjoyed the guide team the most. I believe we hit the jackpot for a team. Safety was always the top priority, everyone was more than happy to answer the 1000 questions being thrown at them. And overall they made the trip amazing.
Daniel B
June 21, 2026
I enjoyed the guide team the most. I believe we hit the jackpot for a team. Safety was always the top priority, everyone was more than happy to answer the 1000 questions being thrown at them. And overall they made the trip amazing.
What did you enjoy most?
I enjoyed the guide team the most. I believe we hit the jackpot for a team. Safety was always the top priority, everyone was more than happy to answer the 1000 questions being thrown at them. And overall they made the trip amazing.
What needs improvement?
NA
June 20, 2026
Expedition Skills Seminar - Emmons
I was very impressed by the quality of the guides, from their commitment to safety to their depth of knowledge to their interpersonal skills.
Ben W
June 20, 2026
I was very impressed by the quality of the guides, from their commitment to safety to their depth of knowledge to their interpersonal skills.
Additional Comments
George is an outstanding guide. If I ever climb with RMI again (and I hope to), I hope George is leading!
What did you enjoy most?
I was very impressed by the quality of the guides, from their commitment to safety to their depth of knowledge to their interpersonal skills.
What needs improvement?
As someone who does not come from a climbing background, I would have found a brief “trial” of using a harness (ex, trusting my body weight to the harness completely in a benign environment during one of the training days) before committing to the harness for the first time on the top of a 100 foot crevasse!
May 29, 2026
Expedition Skills Seminar - Emmons
I really enjoyed the guides. I have always wanted to learn about climbing and they did a great job.
Phillip D
May 29, 2026
I really enjoyed the guides. I have always wanted to learn about climbing and they did a great job.
Additional Comments
Dustin did a wonderful job on teaching us the skills we needed to succeed.
What did you enjoy most?
I really enjoyed the guides. I have always wanted to learn about climbing and they did a great job.
August 11, 2025
Expedition Skills Seminar - Emmons
That sunny afternoon at Schurman gazing back up at the summit where we stood a few short hours ago... And the guides. Man, that is one amazing, passionate, skilled team of young people.
Eben H
August 11, 2025
That sunny afternoon at Schurman gazing back up at the summit where we stood a few short hours ago... And the guides. Man, that is one amazing, passionate, skilled team of young people.
Additional Comments
Henry was an absolute rock star lead guide. I was consistently impressed by his poise, athleticism, technical knowledge, interpersonal skills, and remarkable maturity for someone at such a young age. It’s a privilege to watch someone so skilled and so passionate doing what they were clearly born to do. Thank you, Henry!
Additional Comments
Equipment list was great! The food and specifically *lunches* (aka snacks) was the most stressful and difficult to prepare for. I do understand it's hard to quantify (since it's very personal). But it was the biggest unknown for our group - most of us packed too much (largely due to the "Sample Menu" section). Henry did a great job talking us through it all in person, however.
Additional Comments
You guys have it dialed in. Couldn't be more pleased with the itinerary and planning. And it's clear that you have a deep respect for the environment/mountain.
What did you enjoy most?
That sunny afternoon at Schurman gazing back up at the summit where we stood a few short hours ago... And the guides. Man, that is one amazing, passionate, skilled team of young people.
What needs improvement?
More clarity on "lunches"!
August 5, 2025
Expedition Skills Seminar - Emmons
Great time and glad I was able to summit!
Trevor C
August 5, 2025
Great time and glad I was able to summit!
Additional Comments
Henry was a fantastic leader and was so professional throughout the entire climb. I would recommend him to anyone who asks.
Additional Comments
Overall a great experience. Coming from NYC I was a little out of my depth but feel really prepared now for my next one!
Additional Comments
Great experience
What did you enjoy most?
Great time and glad I was able to summit!
July 29, 2025
Expedition Skills Seminar - Emmons
Solitude - not having a huge group or a large amount of climbers made it great. I go outdoors to get back to nature and away from people and this route was great
Steven B
July 29, 2025
Solitude - not having a huge group or a large amount of climbers made it great. I go outdoors to get back to nature and away from people and this route was great
Additional Comments
I wish there was more direction for the amount of food to bring. I over packed on food. I know this is a very personal item but some recommendations even during gear check would have helped.
What did you enjoy most?
Solitude - not having a huge group or a large amount of climbers made it great. I go outdoors to get back to nature and away from people and this route was great
What needs improvement?
Talk more about food during gear check. Even if it's number of recommend snacks each day. Like I said I over packed by about 5 lbs.
July 12, 2025
Expedition Skills Seminar - Emmons
Ice climbing practice by being lowered into a crevasse really added something special to this trip!
Garret P
July 12, 2025
Ice climbing practice by being lowered into a crevasse really added something special to this trip!
What did you enjoy most?
Ice climbing practice by being lowered into a crevasse really added something special to this trip!
What needs improvement?
Website has some minor bugs (for example I had to call to correct dates for my meal package. Was not prompted to enter trip dates when purchasing and it defaulted to the date of purchase). This issue was easily solved with a phone call.
July 7, 2025
Expedition Skills Seminar - Emmons
Realizing how much more goes into a climb than I ever understood. And how much more I need to work to be prepared.
Darren S
July 7, 2025
Realizing how much more goes into a climb than I ever understood. And how much more I need to work to be prepared.
Additional Comments
Dustin was an amazing teacher and guide. He made everything relatable and explained each step perfectly. I felt completely confident with him.
What did you enjoy most?
Realizing how much more goes into a climb than I ever understood. And how much more I need to work to be prepared.
What needs improvement?
I wouldn't recommend anyone stay any farther than 2 or 3 miles from the main location. I stayed at the National Inn (an awful experience) and had to drive an hour and ten minutes each day.
July 5, 2025
Expedition Skills Seminar - Emmons
Good itinerary and fun experiences on top of the actual climb
Thomas J
July 5, 2025
Good itinerary and fun experiences on top of the actual climb
What did you enjoy most?
Good itinerary and fun experiences on top of the actual climb
What needs improvement?
I would have appreciated not being paired up with the slowest climber of the group on the summit day. I showed the proper strength and endurance and was constantly tugging their rope on the way down to keep up with the guide or having the rope tangled in my feet, adding stress and danger to my climb. It also slowed down my descent from the summit substantially while other rope teams were able to proceed with the pace they wanted to. I would have appreciated the option to rope up with him or another group and not be tethered in that poor situation unwillingly.
June 19, 2025
Expedition Skills Seminar - Emmons
Experiencing Mt. Rainier's remote wilderness with a small group. I was able to make friends with all the clients and guides because of the small group and close knit team dynamic we formed over the program.
Jordan V
June 19, 2025
Experiencing Mt. Rainier's remote wilderness with a small group. I was able to make friends with all the clients and guides because of the small group and close knit team dynamic we formed over the program.
Additional Comments
Nick is a patient and tremendous teacher! He answered all client questions methodically ensuring all clients got the information they were looking for. He was also incredibly encouraging throughout the program and fully engaged. I cannot thank Nick enough for helping me reach my goal of summiting Mt. Rainier!
Additional Comments
This was my first experience with RMI and it was incredible across the board. A truly world class experience. I'll definitely be back for more trips with RMI. Thank you RMI team for the amazing job you all do!
Additional Comments
Program was well structured and executed.
What did you enjoy most?
Experiencing Mt. Rainier's remote wilderness with a small group. I was able to make friends with all the clients and guides because of the small group and close knit team dynamic we formed over the program.
What needs improvement?
Some of my rental gear was damaged. The rental team should more closely inspect gear before renting it out to avoid repeat trips in/out of the rental shop.
June 4, 2025
Expedition Skills Seminar - Emmons
The trip was enjoyable from start to finish. The summit was a highlight, but the most enjoyable part was having three incredible guides to learn from and spend 6 days with.
Jeff M
June 4, 2025
The trip was enjoyable from start to finish. The summit was a highlight, but the most enjoyable part was having three incredible guides to learn from and spend 6 days with.
Additional Comments
It's hard to overstate how dialed Sam was as our trip leader. It started with the opening slideshow. I was incredibly impressed with how professional, knowledgeable, and well-spoken Sam was. Throughout the first and second training days, it became apparent that Sam is a natural leader and wise beyond his years. Sam was also able to professionally handle a challenging conversation with one member of our group who was not fit to join us on the Emmons climb. Throughout the four days on the Emmons climb, Sam led with a calm head, professionalism, and an ever-present sense of safety. He was constantly looking for moments to teach us techniques and mountaineering skills. Sam also pushed the team to keep pace, which was appreciated. Sam was easy to spend six days with and made this trip unforgettable. Despite the serious nature of guiding a climb on Mt. Rainier, which Sam nailed, he is sneaky funny and brought levity at the best times. I will remember standing on top of Mt. Rainier with Sam forever and hope to climb with him in the future.
Additional Comments
Everything was very dialed and easy to navigate.
Additional Comments
The seminar was well managed and executed with an outstanding balance of learning and climbing.
What did you enjoy most?
The trip was enjoyable from start to finish. The summit was a highlight, but the most enjoyable part was having three incredible guides to learn from and spend 6 days with.
What needs improvement?
No critical feedback, you have it dialed.
May 30, 2025
Expedition Skills Seminar - Emmons
I enjoyed the entire seminar from learning rope systems, recovery, climbing techniques, to just best practices for about every situation you might encounter on the mountain. Very nicely done from the whole team under Sam’s leadership.
Jason M
May 30, 2025
I enjoyed the entire seminar from learning rope systems, recovery, climbing techniques, to just best practices for about every situation you might encounter on the mountain. Very nicely done from the whole team under Sam’s leadership.
Additional Comments
Sam Hoffman is clearly the future! Extensive knowledge base and even better ability to teach it. RMI is lucky to have him and look forward to following his career accomplishments in the future. Legend has it “The mountain once Glissaded off Sam Hoffman”
What did you enjoy most?
I enjoyed the entire seminar from learning rope systems, recovery, climbing techniques, to just best practices for about every situation you might encounter on the mountain. Very nicely done from the whole team under Sam’s leadership.
What needs improvement?
Nothing, y’all are dialed keep it up.
July 30, 2024
Expedition Skills Seminar - Emmons
The team was superb at maintaining professionalism while making mountaineering seem effortless. Without a doubt this was a worthwhile and exceptionally informative trip.
Christopher L
July 30, 2024
The team was superb at maintaining professionalism while making mountaineering seem effortless. Without a doubt this was a worthwhile and exceptionally informative trip.
Additional Comments
Ben was the most exceptional leader, kind and patient and very knowledgeable.
What did you enjoy most?
The team was superb at maintaining professionalism while making mountaineering seem effortless. Without a doubt this was a worthwhile and exceptionally informative trip.
July 28, 2024
Expedition Skills Seminar - Emmons
The guides. All four were awesome. Such a wealth of knowledge and experience that they so freely shared. I always felt safe.
Ryan H
July 28, 2024
The guides. All four were awesome. Such a wealth of knowledge and experience that they so freely shared. I always felt safe.
Additional Comments
Drew was a fantastic lead guide. He lead the team well and was always professional, confident, and a great educator.
What did you enjoy most?
The guides. All four were awesome. Such a wealth of knowledge and experience that they so freely shared. I always felt safe.
July 18, 2024
Expedition Skills Seminar - Emmons
We must have got the dream team of all of your mountain guides. All 4 were mountain wizards.
Jessica G
July 18, 2024
We must have got the dream team of all of your mountain guides. All 4 were mountain wizards.
What did you enjoy most?
We must have got the dream team of all of your mountain guides. All 4 were mountain wizards.
What needs improvement?
100 stars out of 5. Give them a raise!
July 18, 2024
Expedition Skills Seminar - Emmons
All of our instructors were incredible. My favorite part was all of the skills, knowledge, and learning they provided.
Jenelle D
July 18, 2024
All of our instructors were incredible. My favorite part was all of the skills, knowledge, and learning they provided.
What did you enjoy most?
All of our instructors were incredible. My favorite part was all of the skills, knowledge, and learning they provided.
What needs improvement?
Absolutely nothing. This experience was wonderful from start to finish
July 17, 2024
Expedition Skills Seminar - Emmons
Crevasse rescue out of an actual crevasse. That was insane
Jack F
July 17, 2024
Crevasse rescue out of an actual crevasse. That was insane
Additional Comments
Really amazing guide, totally shocked by the level of professionalism he showed 100% of the time. Absolutely ZERO issues
Additional Comments
Didn’t really get any emails, but would have been nice to know what teams summitted before. Also, I think we need more carabiners for the equipment list.
Additional Comments
Can we not go directly to Camp Schurmann on the first day? Maybe I was missing something
What did you enjoy most?
Crevasse rescue out of an actual crevasse. That was insane
What needs improvement?
I would have liked to have been sent some reading on systems/reading glaciers beforehand - I had a lot of questions even when my questions were being answered, and reading may have helped
July 16, 2024
Expedition Skills Seminar - Emmons
The guides and the team. Our group of guides both work well together and present an excellent team attitude, and that carried over into a fortunately well-meshed group of climbers as well.
Joseph K
July 16, 2024
The guides and the team. Our group of guides both work well together and present an excellent team attitude, and that carried over into a fortunately well-meshed group of climbers as well.
Additional Comments
Leif is a great lead guide. His experience comes through in actions big & small, from routing to how quick he is w/ ropes, to having experience and a plan for the many numerous very niche events that might happen on a trip. But he never comes across as having any ego about it, and is very friendly while also being the group leader. For the training sections his group presentations were good, and 1-on-1 coaching excellent, with a wealth of experience to talk from and answer questions by.
Additional Comments
I noted and was impressed & pleased by our guide's care for the mountain itself. They came across as following through 100% on trying to maintain the environment, while many other teams might (and did) more or less call it "good enough" at some lesser commitment.
What did you enjoy most?
The guides and the team. Our group of guides both work well together and present an excellent team attitude, and that carried over into a fortunately well-meshed group of climbers as well.
What needs improvement?
Coin operated showers at base camp!
July 16, 2024
Expedition Skills Seminar - Emmons
Always professional experience
Paul M
July 16, 2024
Always professional experience
Additional Comments
I believe day one could be started slight later to allow commuters one more day at home and less travel expenses. There is a lot of time to cover the items discussed day 1 on the following days.
What did you enjoy most?
Always professional experience
July 14, 2024
Expedition Skills Seminar - Emmons
RMI guides during this trip were very knowledgeable and awesome to talk and listen to. Their own shared experiences helped bring great insight for future trips into the mountains.
Stephen K
July 14, 2024
RMI guides during this trip were very knowledgeable and awesome to talk and listen to. Their own shared experiences helped bring great insight for future trips into the mountains.
Additional Comments
Great at communicating, leading, and very knowledgeable. Would love to have again as a guide for future expeditions.
What did you enjoy most?
RMI guides during this trip were very knowledgeable and awesome to talk and listen to. Their own shared experiences helped bring great insight for future trips into the mountains.
Sorry! there are no available dates that meet your current criteria
You might consdier one of these trips instead:
Mt. Rainier - Four Day Climb
May 5, 2026
Guides: Jack Delaney, Jess Wedel, Calvin Jiricko
Mt McKinley - West Buttress Expedition
May 5, 2026
Mt. Rainier - Four Day Climb
May 5, 2026
Additional Comments
Sam made all the hard and most difficult things about the expedition feel fun and exciting to learn something new. His commitment to constantly checking in with clients and fellow guides showed a strong leadership principle and desire to make the expedition successful for everyone.