This basic mountaineering climb and instruction program is designed for those who want more individualized training and a less hurried approach to climbing Mt. Rainier. We enhance our training curriculum by adding a half day pre-climb orientation and instructional meeting at IMG's Headquarters in Ashford, just outside the park. Training and skills instruction continues throughout each day of the ascent. This increases acclimatization, minimizes total days for the trip and allows for training to be conducted on the mountain in real conditions all the way to the summit and back. Three full days are spent on the mountain for maximum acclimatization and a more enjoyable experience. Packs are lighter because of the fixed camps and minimal group gear to carry. Expect a 35 pound pack.

Meet at 2pm at IMG Headquarters in Ashford for initial group training and orientation on the starting date.

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The 4½ Day Emmons glacier climb is another excellent basic mountaineering training program. It is recommended for anyone desiring a less-rushed summit experience in a more remote alpine environment, away from the greater crowds found on the south side of the mountain. A more self-sufficient climbing experience with all gear carried by the group, but all the advantages of IMG's 2:1 guide ratio. Expect to carry a 50+ pound pack and enjoy a beautiful and scenic route. We enhance the training curriculum by adding a half day pre-climb orientation and instructional meeting at IMG's Headquarters in Ashford, just outside the park. Training and skills instruction continues throughout each day of the ascent.

Meet at 2pm at IMG headquarters for gear checks and rental, then the team rides over in the IMG shuttle to the Alpine Inn Lodge at Crystal Mountain Ski Area, on the east side of the mountain.

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This intermediate climb with mountaineering instruction is a more technically challenging program. It is for people in good condition who have previous climbing experience; are looking to enhance their skills; and are seeking a greater summit day challenge. The en route training curriculum is comprehensive and continuous, and previous cramponing practice on glacier ice is required. For a refresher, or to learn additional new skills, we highly recommend the optional Mountaineering Day School, the Advanced Mountaineering Day School or the Crevasse Rescue School, which are often offered as refresher options prior to the scheduled dates of the Kautz Summit Climb.

Meet at 2pm at IMG Headquarters in Ashford on Day 1.

This intermediate climb with mountaineering instruction is enhanced by an expanded training curriculum. During midsummer conditions when the crux of the Kautz route has a longer section of exposed, 40-50 degree glacier ice, we feel an extra day spent training on the lower glacier in advanced cramponing technique is required to get the team all climbing with the same skills. We add the Advanced Mountaineering Day School into the trip itinerary to better set up the group for success on the summit day. You are responsible for two nights of lodging in Ashford, after the ½ day orientation on day one and after skills training on day two.

Meet at 2pm at IMG Headquarters in Ashford on Day 1.

The Fuhrer Finger climb is another good choice for an intermediate level climb and mountaineering training curriculum. This program is for anyone with prior alpine climbing experience looking for a more challenging route and skill training on Mt. Rainier. Previous alpine climbing experience on major glaciated peaks and basic mountaineering skills including cramponing in firm ice and snow conditions are required. Each climb is limited to 4 climbers and 2 guides. The five day schedule (all on the mountain) allows time for honing skills, a high camp set up at the top of the Finger at 11,000 feet and maximum enjoyment of the climb to the summit.

Meet at 2pm at IMG Headquarters in Ashford on Day 1.

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This is our advanced level climb and mountaineering instruction program. It is the most technical and physically demanding guided route on Mt. Rainier, and a classic. Each climb is limited to 4 climbers and 2 guides. The training curriculum is advanced but previous technical ice climbing skills and excellent stamina are required for this program.

Meet at 2pm at IMG Headquarters in Ashford on Day 1.

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A great introduction to basic glacier travel skills. You'll learn proper handling of an ice axe; practice self arrest; learn to climb in balance up and down steeper slopes; proper use of crampons and how to travel safely as a member of a rope team over glaciated terrain.

Meet at 8:00am at IMG Headquarters in Ashford.

A continuation of the MDS to include steeper angle cramponing skills: flat footed French technique, front pointing, standing in balance on crampons and movement over ice. Use of ice axe on moderately steep slopes including technical tools. Anchor construction on snow and glacier ice is covered as well as belaying, anchor management, rappelling and lowering.

Meet at 8:00 a.m. at IMG Headquarters in Ashford.

A comprehensive introduction to climbing skills: knots, rope work, self-rescue, anchors, crevasse rescue. We at IMG feel this is the most comprehensive crevasse rescue course available.

Meet at 8:00 a.m. at IMG Headquarters in Ashford.

The first day is conducted at Headquarters. The second day is conducted on the mountain. Participants are responsible for their own overnight lodging. IMG has an inexpensive and convenient tent camp on site.

The "high end" IMG training program. Includes standard seminar training with a focus on more ice climbing, route finding and glacier travel. Three nights spent on lower glaciers, then one night at Muir, one night at Ingraham Flats. Training focused on developing climbing skills, ice climbing, and crevasse rescue. Summit attempt included.

Meet at 2pm at IMG Headquarters in Ashford on Day 1.

July 15-21, 2013 (one spot open)

Optional:
Emmons Glacier Summit Climb
July 22-25, 2013 (additional $1,564)

Similar in content to our "high end" Glacier Skills Seminar, but with more adventure. The seminar is a small team format, four climbers and two guides. The program is far from the standard route, traveling over several glacier systems en route to a summit of Little Tahoma, 11,138', the third highest peak in Washington State. The seminar includes all of the normal seminar training including a focus on glacier ice climbing, rescue training, route finding and roped glacier travel. Add on an optional Emmons Glacier Summit Climb at the end of the program for the ultimate experience!

Meet at 2pm at IMG Headquarters in Ashford on Day 1.

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Training focused on winter climbing and Denali skills based out of our hut at Camp Muir. There is a strong focus on avalanche hazard evaluation. The goal is a winter ascent of Rainier, but it is an elusive prize. This is the perfect training for any high altitude, cold weather expedition. Mt. Rainier in mid-winter is the ultimate challenge! Includes a summit attempt as conditions allow.

Training focused on preparation for an expedition to Denali or other high altitude peaks. Get the best possible training necessary to participate in an expedition to Denali including ice axe arrest, cramponing, sled rigging and hauling, expedition camps, snow shelters, snow anchors, crevasse rescue and fixed ropes. This program is equally useful for those looking for a good introductory winter training seminar. March and April only. Includes a summit attempt as conditions allow.

Come join us for an unforgettable ski and ski mountaineering training experience. It is not an exaggeration to say that Mt. Rainier has some of the world's finest alpine ski mountaineering terrain. You will be training and skiing on a wide variety of fantastic terrain including glaciers, chutes, and long descents during the course of a traverse across the lower flanks of Mt. Rainier below 10,000 feet. Programs are guided by our AMGA certified ski guides.

All prices quoted above include Mount Rainier Climbing Pass, Park Entrance Fee,
and shuttle service from IMG Ashford HQ in and out of the Park.