"Very Impressed. This climb was much more challenging and fulfilling than expected. The schedule was flawlessly executed between the gear check and the return to Seattle. I was impressed by how organized and punctual this company was in preparation for this climb. There was a symmetry of information between the climbers, guides, and headquarters that made this trip flow much smoother. The food, the transportation, and the gear provided were all perfect. All four of the guides were very knowledgeable and their confidence on Mt Rainier was contagious. At any of my "what am I doing here?" moments, I was quickly reminded by the motivating actions and experience of these guides to stay focused and follow their lead. There was no point in which I would have questioned their professional opinion or decision during ascent or descent. It was as though they knew this mountain almost too well, and that was comforting in itself. It was plain to see that each guide knew exactly what they were doing at any given moment on that mountain, and when appropriate, relayed their knowledge to the rest of the group. From learning each guide personally, it was understood that mountaineering was their passion and absolute safety was their priority. The diverse climbing backgrounds of each guide afforded us all the opportunity to learn even more as much of their vast prior experience became applicable to Mt Rainier." Matthew M. 2010 Rainier Climber >>> More
"Fabulous, your leaders were superb and inspired confidence in the group and took time every turn to teach and further explain climbing techniques. The leadership was much more professional than teams I have climbed with in the past." — Emilie
"The most organized and deftly executed climbs I have ever been on, it seemed as there was nothing they did not know about Rainier. It is a rare occurrence to spend time with people as professional and as motivated as my guide team." — Gil W
"This is the 5th time I have climbed with Alpine Ascents in the past 9 years. What I appreciate is consistency in the product. It is obvious that you are meticulous in selecting guides and ensure they adhere to safety and climbing principles." — David W.
3-Day Muir Climb Overview
This 3 day instructional course/summit climb will teach you some of the basics of glacier mountaineering, including self arrest training, glacier and rope techniques while looking to summit Mt. Rainier. Successful completion of this program will give you the required skills for some of our more advanced expeditions Prior to your summit climb all team members will have an instructional gear check which reviews the functionality of each piece of gear, wilderness ethics, LNT and mission statement of the National Park Service.
This three-day program via the Muir corridor/Disappointment clever on Mount Rainier is the most popular climb on the mountain. It provides an extraordinary expedition experience while allowing you to attempt the summit with the greatest ease and enjoyment. Our first night is spent in a private hut at Camp Muir (10,000 feet) already stocked with climbing gear, allowing for lighter packs on the approach. Our second night in a remote tent camp situated on the Ingraham Glacier at 11,000 feet gives us better acclimatization, a shorter summit day and a wilderness experience as we are climbing ahead of the larger groups leaving Camp Muir. All necessary training takes place on the mountain giving you more time to enjoy the wondrous beauty of Mount Rainier. This is our signature climb on Mount Rainier. We greatly look forward to having you join us this season.
Why Join Alpine Ascents for the 3-Day Muir Climb of Mount Rainier?
Experience and Safety
Alpine Ascents has the best Safety record in the business and our 20 years of guiding experience one the highest mountains in the world and on Mount Rainier is unparalleled. Our intent is to provide the same level of quality, service, safety and environmental stewardship that has been our trademark throughout the guiding community. (See more about us, our guides and staff)
Expedition Style
This 3-day approach has never been offered before and provides great opportunity for summit success. Our Muir program is 3 full days (including 2 nights) on the mountain. Some companies list a 4-day climb but your actual summit climb is only 2 days (including just 1 night on the mountain) which require you to climb up the mountain for training and return to a hotel at night. In addition to providing breakfast and dinners while on the mountain, Alpine Ascents does all our training on the Cowlitz Glacier & nearby snowfields out of Camp Muir allowing you to acclimatize better, enjoy the mountain views from 10,000’, and avoid the cost of another hotel night.
Guide Ratio 2:1
With one guide for every two climbers you have more individualized instruction, great assistance on summit day and overall success and safety are increased. This 2:1 ratio makes for practically a private guiding experience. Our guides will be teachers and impart knowledge throughout the program.
High Camp 1,000 feet above Camp Muir (Shorter summit day)
On our Three Day Muir Climb we use an additional high camp which puts you 1000 feet closer to the summit and it allows you to be first on the upper mountain avoiding larger groups starting from Camp Muir.
Less Expensive - Seattle Based - No Rental Car Required
Alpine Ascents is the only guide service that drives you round trip Seattle -Mt Rainier – Seattle, thus offering a substantial savings. Our shuttle eliminates a $200 car rental and a complicated two hour drive each way to the mountain. We also invite you to enjoy the City of Seattle while in the Northwest .Our schedule can save you up to 2 hotel nights as our trips do not have you leave the mountain after a day of training Our trips are time efficient as we offer a 2:00pm gear check allowing us to save a day as we head to the mountain early the next morning
Tents Equipment & Meals
Provided: All group climbing equipment: climbing ropes and technical hardware; tents, and meals (except lunch). Transportation is provided for this climb.
Not provided: Personal equipment. You are responsible for all items on the Gear List. Alpine Ascents has high quality gear for rent. See Rental Form
PREREQUISITES - 40 Pound Pack Required
Climbing Skill Level
This climb is open to any physically fit enthusiastic novice, beginner or advanced beginner. One day of training is included in the climb. Prior experience with backpacking and camping is recommended.
Physical Conditioning
In the best interest of personal safety, success and team compatibility, adequate training and excellent physical condition are required. Prior experience with backpacking and camping is recommended. Climbers must be able to carry an average of 40lbs or more. Climbers need to be in excellent physical condition for both personal enjoyment and to be an integral team member. We encourage you to contact us so that we may assist you in developing a training program that meets your particular needs.
Comprehensive training information can be found here.
Return to Top of Page