Mt. Rainier 3½ Day Summit Climb

Our 3½ Day Ingraham Glacier/Disappointment Cleaver summit program is designed for those who want a more intimate and relaxed approach to climbing Mt. Rainier. This program allows for somewhat easier days than the traditional two-day climb by dividing the climb into more manageable sections and gives you an extra day to acclimatize to the altitude and enjoy the majestic alpine environment with your climbing team.

Why Choose This Program?

Climbing with a 2:1 client-to-guide ratio provides a superior level of support and safety. Our group size is never larger than twelve (8 climbers and 4 guides).

We make use of two camps on the route: IMG's shelter at Camp Muir at 10,080ft and an established tent camp at The Flats at 11,000ft. These camps make for shorter climbing days and most importantly a shorter summit day due to the higher altitude of The Flats.

We maximize training by adding a half day pre-climb orientation and instructional meeting at IMG's Headquarters in Ashford, just outside the park. We incorporate training en route during the first two days of the ascent. This increases acclimatization, minimizes total days for the trip and allows for training to be conducted on the mountain in conditions closer to those you will find on the summit day.

IMG employs a light and efficient philosophy for climbing. To minimize the weight on your backs we provide shelter, stoves, fuel, cook wear and group climbing gear (ropes, pickets, shovels, etc.) for you at each camp. Climbing without these the first day (4,600 ft. of elevation gain) is a definite advantage and allows you to arrive at camp more rested for the climb ahead. We will help you review your personal climbing gear carefully prior to departure to make sure you are not carrying any unnecessary weight up the mountain. Total personal gear including filled water bottles should be approximately 35 pounds, excluding your boots and ski poles.

IMG provides breakfasts, dinners and hot drinks for the group on the mountain. We feel this adds considerably to the experience in terms of convenience, comfort and camaraderie.

Prerequisites

There are no prerequisites. All training is conducted during the pre-climb orientation and the two-day approach to high camp. All that is required is good physical fitness and previous training carrying an overnight pack. For training suggestions please review the information provided on our Training for Rainier page »

Rental Gear

Some of the more specialized gear (like plastic boots, harness, etc.) is available for rent from IMG. Please consult our Rental Page for details.

See video of an IMG Mt. Rainier Gear Check »