Whittaker Mountaineering Blog

A warm November Day at Paradise

2009-11-11T09:44:00.000-08:00

November 4, 2009

A Warm November Day at Paradise

In early November at the 5400 foot elevation of Paradise in Mount Rainier National Park, it’s most unusual to be taking coats off before hiking up the trails closer to the mountain. But that is exactly what we did on November 4, 2009 even with patches of snow on the slopes left over from snowfall the prior weekend. I giggled as my hiking partners started out with their hats and gloves knowing that just climbing upward always makes me warm. As they shed their hats, gloves and fleeces soon after we began to climb, we talked about how warm it was and how it felt like a summer day. November weather in the mountains brings lots of clouds, rain, wind and also some sun that will appear briefly but disappears as fast as it came. Therefore, when the first week of November turned out sunny, we rushed to the mountain for a final autumn hike before the cooler weather came and snow made us wear snowshoes.

The national park is now in its winter mode with the Stevens Canyon Road closed along with the one way Valley Exit Road down through Paradise Valley. The Paradise Visitor Center is open throughout the snow months but only on the weekends and holidays. On this warm November day during the work week, the parking lot had a couple dozen cars so we had the Paradise trails pretty much to ourselves.

The mountain light at Paradise gives Mount Rainier a different face every day. When the clouds bump up against the mountain or pass over the summit they often add an interesting decorative element showcased from the wide open views at Paradise. On this day new snow lightly covered the summer bare rocky areas laying the first white layer that would build to a deep winter robe covering the mountain. Golden meadow grasses from the fall season lay flat over the terrain or smashed under remaining snow with bits of red bushes contrasting brightly with the patches of white. Despite all these unique sights, it was the warmth of the day that both surprised and delighted us as we walked upward on the snowy slushy Deadhorse Creek trail.

After rounding a corner we came upon a bird that was feeding right by the trail. At first we thought it was a grouse because of its size, but after standing next to it and snapping pictures we decided this was a Ptmarigan whose feathers were changing to their winter white making it practically invisible as it stands on the snowy slopes during winter. As we hiked higher and closer to Mount Rainier on this warm November day, the magic of our close proximity stopped us in our tracks to stare at this magnificent majestic sight. Hiking at Paradise is definitely being in PARADISE!

Written by:
Sally Johnson
www.mtrainierphotos.com

NOTE: After this warm first week in November storms brewed, temperatures dropped and the snow fell. Paradise presently has approximately 40 inches of snow and winter has officially come to Mount Rainier National Park. Get out the snowshoes, X-skis, snowboards or downhill skis. Be ready to hike upward for peaceful snowy fun!

Winter Snowshoe & Ski book can be purchased here.
WhittakerMountaineering.com

Gifford Pinchot update

2009-07-03T10:36:00.001-07:00

Gifford Pinchot forest ready for summer visitors By ALLEN THOMAS Columbian staff writer Winter has relinquished its grip on all but the highest elevations in the Gifford Pinchot National Forest, opening up hiking, camping and fishing choices as summer hits full stride between the Fourth of July and Labor Day.

The snow level is roughly at 4,500 feet elevation, although that varies significantly in different portions of the 1.3-million-acre Gifford Pinchot.

Hikers will find snow in much of Indian Heaven Wilderness and most of the best places in the Mount Adams and Goat Rocks wildernesses.

Roger Peterson, a Pinchot spokesman in Vancouver, said recreationists need to remember to leave their fireworks at home this weekend.

Possessing fireworks or other pyrotechnic devices are prohibited on national forest lands, he noted.

"Fireworks can start wildfires,'' Peterson said.

Forest officials also are urging visitors to the blast zone area north of Mount St. Helens to consider not bringing their pets.

"When summer temperatures reach into the 80s and 90s, the exposed landscape around Mount St. Helens is a very harsh environment,'' Peterson said.

Road No. 99 to the popular Windy Ridge viewpoint on the east side of Spirit Lake will open Friday, Peterson said.

Road No. 25 connecting the upper Lewis River area and the Cowlitz Valley is open. A one-lane bridge at Benham Creek near Randle will route motorists past a slide that occurred during the winter.

Road No. 23 connecting Randle and Trout Lake is open. The washout at Baby Shoe Pass was repaired last year.

Road No. 2329 in the High Lakes area is open from the south as far as Divide Camp No. 112 trailhead, but not to Killen Creek.

Road No. 83 to Lava Canyon Recreation Area is open, but road No. 81 is closed between Kalama Horse Camp and road No. 830 leading to Climber's Bivouac. Access to Climber's Bivouac is open from the east via roads Nos.
83 and 81.

Lava Canyon trail No. 184 will be closed while the bridge washed out in flooding during early November of 2006 is replaced, Peterson said. Ape Canyon trail No. 234 will remain open.

Road No. 54 remains closed by landslides six miles east of Chelatchie Prairie.

In the north end of the forest, road No. 2160 is open to Walupt Lake and the campground is open.

Takhlakh Lake campground is accessible, but the water system is not yet working. There are no fees being charged until the services are ready.

On Tuesday, the state Department of Fish and Wildlife stocked 200 rainbow trout averaging 3 pounds in Takhlakh.

Almost 500 trout were stocked last week in both Forlorn Lake No. 1 and No.
2.

Major campgrounds open for the weekend include Beaver, Panther Creek, Paradise Creek, Lower Falls, Forlorn Lakes, Moss Creek, Oklahoma, Peterson Prairie, Goose Lake, Trout Lake Creek, Walupt Lake, Tower Rock, Sunset Falls, Olallie, North Fork, Iron Creek, La Wis Wis, Big Creek and Adams Fork.

Lantern rentals are available at Ape Cave daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

**********************************************************
Roger M. Peterson
Public Affairs Office
Gifford Pinchot National Forest
US Forest Service
10600 NE 51st Circle
Vancouver, WA 98682
Phone: 360.891.5007 FAX: 360.891.5010
rmpeterson@fs.fed.us
http://www.fs.fed.us/gpnf/
SERVING PEOPLE and Caring for the Land

Congrats to Dave Hahn

2009-04-29T17:42:00.000-07:00

Mount Rainier Climbing Ranger and Climbing Guide Recognized for 2002 Rescue

A Mount Rainier National Park climbing ranger and a renowned Mount Rainier
climbing guide will be receiving a Valor Award and a Citizen’s Award for
Bravery from the U.S. Department of the Interior at an awards ceremony in
Washington D.C. on May 6. National Park Service Climbing Ranger Chris
Olson and Climbing Guide Dave Hahn, who currently works with Rainier
Mountaineering Inc., of Ashford, Washington, will be receiving their awards
from Secretary of the Interior Ken Salazar for the rescue of a badly
injured climber on Mount Rainier on June 25, 2002.

Chief Ranger Chuck Young, who will be representing Mount Rainier National
Park at the annual ceremony, commented, “The efforts these two individuals
took to complete the rescue of the critically injured climber during the
2002 climbing season was nothing short of extraordinary.” Young explained
that, “ . . .even after surviving the crash of the helicopter that was
flying the rescuers up the mountain and helping with the rescue of the
injured pilot, they continued on with their mission to successfully
complete the rescue at an extremely hazardous area of the mountain”.

On June 25, 2002, a climber ascending Liberty Ridge on the north side of
Mount Rainier was severely injured when struck in the head by a very large
falling rock. His partners requested a rescue for the unconscious man via
a personal cell phone. Accessing, stabilizing, treating and rescuing the
patient on Liberty Ridge is quite hazardous and involved continued exposure
to the same rock fall hazards. Because of their climbing and rescue
abilities, Chris Olson and David Hahn were selected for the mission.

While being inserted by contract helicopter on the glacier at the base of
Liberty Ridge, the ship crashed and was completely destroyed. Remarkably,
Olson, Hahn and the pilot were not seriously injured, though Olson was
struck by the engine and doused in oil. Though stressed and shaken, Olson
and Hahn regained their composure and assisted in evacuating the pilot via
a U.S. Army Chinook Helicopter. Afterward, the two refocused their
attention to the injured climber and ascended to the accident site to help
complete the rescue. The rescue involved patient stabilization and a long
technical rope rescue through the hazardous terrain back to the helicopter
crash site for hoist extraction. This dramatic and complex rescue took
place in a very challenging and dangerous location. It was Olson’s and
Hahn’s skill, tenacity, and extraordinary personal efforts that allowed the
successful rescue of this climber.

The Valor Award is presented to Department of the Interior employees who
have demonstrated unusual courage involving a high degree of personal risk
in the face of danger.

The Citizen's Award for Bravery is granted to private citizens for heroic
acts or unusual bravery in the face of danger. Recipients have risked their
lives to save the life of a Departmental employee or the life of another
person on property owned by or entrusted to the Department of the Interior.

--NPS--

Whittaker Mountaineering introduces First Ascent

2009-04-28T20:40:00.000-07:00

We are pleased to announce the First Ascent line available now at Whittaker Mountaineering

Snow adventure at Mt Rainier

2009-03-17T16:56:00.000-07:00

X-Country Skiing & Snowshoeing
Mt. Rainier National Park

Paradise at 5400 feet elevation is the ultimate winter experience in Mt. Rainier National Park. But, weather sometimes changes this wonderful area into a cold, windy and can’t see a foot in front of you place. So, here are some outstanding alternatives inside the park.

Cougar Rock Campground
Location: 2 miles past Longmire on the left side of the road.
There are six flat campground loop roads covered in deep untracked snow in amongst tall old growth trees. This is a perfect place for X-skiing! Since I don’t have skis, I explore the campground on snowshoes wishing I was able to glide quickly along my way.

Barn Flats Meadow
Location: Below Paradise
Three entrances to Barn Flats Meadow:
1. From the Nisqually Road on the right side about a mile past Narada Falls but before reaching Paradise.
(This is the best way for X-Country Skiers because it is a flat trail into the meadow)
2. Upon entering Paradise on the right side of the road a clearing has been plowed for a trail down into Barn Flats.
3. From the back far side of the Paradise Parking Lot. Another clearing has been plowed that allows people to go down into Barn Flats or access the snow covered Valley Road down into Paradise Valley.

These are two great places for winter fun in the snow! Mt. Rainier National Park offers a variety of places to snowshoe and ski. For more detailed information about what the town of Ashford and Mt. Rainier National Park offers, Whittaker Mountaineering Store sells the only Winter Snowshoe & Ski Information Guide with MAPS.

Sally Johnson
www.mtrainierphotos.com

Jim and Lou Whittaker turn 80

2009-02-21T13:19:00.000-08:00

Legendary climbers Lou and Jim Whittaker turn 80
Walking hill in Arbor Heights led to their passion, they say

By DAVID ANDRIESEN
P-I REPORTER

The hill that started it all is in the Arbor Heights neighborhood in West Seattle.

Each day, young twins Lou and Jim Whittaker made their way down that hill between their home and Fauntleroy School, where they went to grade school, or Lincoln Park, where they paddled around Puget Sound in canoes and rafts they cobbled together. Each trip home meant a hike up the hill.

"We were up and down that hill all the time, so maybe that's where it all began," Jim Whittaker said. "That's how we came to be in such good shape."

Had they grown up in the flatlands, maybe the Whittakers would have become something other than famous mountaineers. But climbing up and down hills became the focus of their lives, and they wouldn't have it any other way.

"It's been a good life," Jim Whittaker said. "We've been lucky, and we've had a lot of fun. It's been a great adventure."

Tuesday night at the Space Needle, nearly 300 people -- including friends and family, fellow climbers and the doctors who have replaced all four of their knees -- turned out to celebrate the 80th birthday of Seattle's most famous outdoorsmen.

The 605-foot landmark must look like little more than a speed bump to the Whittakers, who have spent much of their lives at heights, both literal and figurative, most of us will never see.

Jim Whittaker will forever be known as the first American to reach the summit of the world's highest peak, Mount Everest, in 1963. Lou is the king of Mount Rainier, having reached that peak a record 250 times and for 40 years running a guide service that has gotten thousands to the top.

It started with treks around West Seattle, and then hiking with the Boy Scouts.

At 16, they made their first major climb, up Mount Olympus. They climbed down to find Seattle in the midst of a celebration -- World War II had ended that day.

The Whittakers earned degrees at Seattle University and were drafted into the Army in 1952 during the Korean War. They served with the mountain troops and taught special forces soldiers and green berets to ski and mountaineer.

When they returned home, Jim went to work for a little company called Recreational Equipment Inc., and went on to serve as CEO of the company, now an industry giant. Lou started his own equipment store, Whittaker's Chalet, in Tacoma.

"People who came in kept asking, 'Do you know anyone who can take us up the mountain, up to Rainier?' " Lou said. "So I figured you could make a living with a guide service."

In 1968, Lou founded Rainier Mountaineering, which employs 50 guides and annually receives half the passes issued by the park service to summit Rainier.

He splits time between Sun Valley, Idaho, and Ashford, where he runs a small hotel. He spent the day before his 80th birthday pouring concrete for an addition to the hotel.

"Every day is a gift," said Lou, who led the first U.S. team to climb the north face of Everest. "Every damn day."

Jim Whittaker earned his place in history on May 1, 1963, when, his oxygen having run out, he reached the 29,028-foot summit of Everest with the help of sherpa Nawang Gombu. He planted a U.S. flag at the top.

Whittaker was given a parade in Seattle and was awarded the Hubbard Medal by President John Kennedy.

Two years later, Kennedy's brother, Sen. Robert Kennedy, visited the Northwest and expressed interest in climbing Mount Kennedy, an unconquered peak in Canada that had been named after his late brother.

"I said, 'Has he ever climbed before?' No. 'Does he know this peak has never been climbed before?' Yes, but he still wants to go," Jim said.

"We stopped 50 feet below the summit and he walked up and became the first human being to stand there.

"That was a wonderful experience. It was one of those times when the tears freeze on the front of your parka. He was in better shape than some of the guys I had on Everest. I couldn't believe it."

Jim Whittaker and Kennedy became close friends and visited each other often, going on climbing, skiing and rafting trips.

Jim was head of Kennedy's campaign in Washington in 1968 when Kennedy was assassinated; he was one of the pallbearers at Kennedy's funeral.

"I'm telling you, he would have changed the planet," Whittaker said of Kennedy. "That was a very tough time."

In 1978, Jim Whittaker promised himself that if his team was successful in becoming the first group of Americans to reach the peak of K2, the world's second-highest peak, he would buy a sailboat.

They did complete the climb, considered even tougher than Everest, and Whittaker's second sporting passion began.

In 1996, he and his wife, Diane Roberts, took their two sons, ages 11 and 13, out of school and set out in a 53-foot sailboat called the Impossible. They stayed on the boat for four years, traveling 20,000 miles and spending extended time in Fiji and Australia.

"The plan was to 'go south until the butter melts,' and then turn west," he said. "We were going to go around the world, but it was so damned nice in the South Pacific.

"People said, 'Aren't you afraid of pirates?' I said, 'Have you been in a middle school these days? This is safer.' "

Although he'll always be known for his Everest achievement, Jim Whittaker said that he's equally proud of the "Peace Climb" he led in 1990.

He assembled a team of 20 men and women from the U.S., China and the Soviet Union to climb Everest and haul two tons of garbage off the mountain. From the base camp, they called the leaders of all three nations before going to the top.

"We stood up there, arms linked together, showing what can be done through friendship and cooperation," Whittaker said.

"We were representing the countries that had the ability to destroy the world, but showing what we could do together."

The Whittaker twins continue to hike, ski and climb, and have no plans to slow down -- after all, both their parents lived into their 90s.

"People ask me the secret of my longevity, and I think a lot of it is just the nature of the Northwest," Lou said. "There's so much to do here. If you can go out and do a little hiking, just take your kids and put in three or four miles a week, you'll be better off."

Jim Whittaker fears that the younger generations are losing touch with nature, and is part of a group near his home in Port Townsend that wants to make sure every child gets to experience time on the water. The group's motto: "No child left inside."

"We've been programmed for thousands of years to walk the forests and be in nature," Jim Whittaker said. "It's only the last couple hundred years that we've gotten caught up in this technology and living inside of walls and going down trails in vehicles."

That's never been the Whittaker twins' style. And after 80 years, it doesn't look like that's ever going to change.
P-I reporter David Andriesen can be reached at 206-448-8061 or davidandriesen@seattlepi.com.

Sunny days in the mountains!

2009-01-18T15:30:00.000-08:00

Here at Whittaker Mountaineering we've been enjoying a warm and sunny holiday weekend thanks to a strong inversion that has occurred throughout the Southern Cascades. For those not familiar with this weather phenomenon, it basically causes temperatures at lower elevations to become cooler than temperatures at higher elevations. While everyone in the Seattle/Tacoma area is experiencing highs in the 40's and dense fog, it is almost 60 here at the shop with clear blue skies above. Head up the road to Paradise at 5420 ft and you will find temps in the mid 60s and intense sun. That's a typical summer day!

Word of this inversion and a clear road to Paradise have brought in people from all over that have been just itching to play in the snow. It might not be fresh powder at this point, but there's plenty of it! Check out what NPS Climbing Ranger Stefan Lofgren had to say about the incredible conditions:

Grab Your Ice Axe and Head for the Hills!
All right folks, this is it! You can ski 7,500 feet of vertical this weekend at Paradise!

Rarely during the winter does the weather turn so nice for so long! I made a run from just above Ingraham Flats (11,500') to Longmire (2,700'), and that's almost 9,000 feet in one run. As you'll read later in this post, I wouldn't particularly recommend skiing the lower 1,500 feet, but 7,500' isn't too bad, is it? With this intense temperature inversion in effect, it may be warmer at 5,500' than at 2,700'. In fact, at Camp Muir on Thursday morning, the temperature was 46 degrees! I could almost smell this coming weekend's barbeques in the Paradise lot, the sun tan oil, and the kids having a great time in the newly groomed snowplay area.

Wow! Hopefully some of you got out to enjoy the goods that Paradise had to offer. And if not, well there's still plenty of time left. Now I can't guarantee another inversion like this one, but I can tell you that the MTTA trails are in great shape for those of you that are looking to get out and enjoy some cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. Want to get the family out to do some snow tubing? The kids (or the kid in you) will love the snowplay area at Paradise where you can tube and sled to your heart's content. Not equipped for these kinds of activities? We can set you up with rental skis, boards, tubes, snowshoes, clothing, tire chains - just about everything you need to get outside and enjoy the winter weather. Check out our rental page for more info. Now quit reading about this stuff and go do it!

A White Christmas at Whittaker Mountaineering

2008-12-20T14:25:00.000-08:00

Winter arrived one week ago Friday when we were closing up the shop, and the day's heavy rain turned to fat white flakes. That night I went to a friend's house a half an hour away. When I left at 6:30, Ashford was it's normal, gray, rainsoaked self. When I returned three hours later it had completely transformed into a winter mountain wonderland. In the past week we have had easily a few feet of accumulation here in Ashford, with Paradise reporting accumulations of 54 inches currently, and Camp Muir reporting depths of 98 inches.

The snow is stunningly beautiful, creating idyllic mountain scenes everywhere you turn. It is creating the perfect backdrop to everyone's holiday celebrations. The Snowplay Area opened at Paradise and people are coming to rent snow tubes and snowshoes to play in the beautiful thick powder that has blanketed Mt. Rainier. This afternoon we are preparing for yet another storm. This one bringing up to a foot or two of more snow and high winds, which means possible power losses in the area. People are rolling out the generators and stopping in for last minute foul weather gear. It is a trade off though for living so close to beautiful trails to XC Ski, snowshoe, and sled.

Here are some photos from around Basecamp and the Park showing off the bounty of snow from this weeks storms. Stay warm! ~Whittaker Mountaineering

Basecamp!

Whittaker Mountaineering

Picnic Tables!

The Mountain Haus

Snowshoeing Eagle Peak in the Park

The Sun Came out for a Day!

Frozen Nisqually River

Mount Rainier Volunteers and SCA

2008-11-18T12:00:00.000-08:00

This info comes from Kevin at rainiervolunteers.blogspot.com. A lot of great work these folks do. Thanks Kevin.

Student Conservation Association's Mount Rainier Recovery Initiative reaches successful conclusion
The Student Conservation Association released the following press release last week, which I've delayed reporting here in light of the recent renewed flooding in the park. We're now repairing the road damage at Kautz Creek, and still waiting on reports from the backcountry, so here's the press release, along with some well-deserved kudos to SCA:An effort valued over $3 million, 3,254 volunteers contributed 154,168 hours to Mount Rainier National ParkSEATTLE, WA -- November 12 , 2008 – The Student Conservation Association’s (SCA) Mount Rainier Recovery Initiative has completed the second and final season of the award-winning program. SCA worked in collaboration with the National Parks Conservation Association (NPCA), Washington Trails Association (WTA) and Washington’s National Park Fund to form the Washington Parks and Forest Coalition. With financial support from REI, Boeing and hundreds of donors, SCA fielded an innovative new program at Mount Rainier to help with the recovery efforts following the devastating floods of 2006.SCA played a pivotal role in the success and momentum of the Mount Rainier Recovery Initiative. Over the course of two years, 3,254 volunteers from around the country contributed a total of 154,168 hours to Mount Rainier National Park – an effort valued over $3 million, according to Park officials. Volunteers worked on rebuilding the Wonderland Trail, restoring habitats, campgrounds and historic structures, carrying supplies to backcountry project locations, patrolling trails and assisting park visitors. SCA also offered wilderness and project management training sessions to park staff and volunteers."I consider Mount Rainier like a second home. I decided that it was time for me to give back some of myself to the park which has given me so much joy, peace, and serenity over the years," said SCA volunteer Jean Millan.The Mount Rainier Recovery Initiative received many accolades, among them the Cooperative Conservation Award, the George B. Hartzog Jr. Award for Outstanding Volunteer Service and the Take Pride in America award, a national award from the Department of the Interior for federal land managers, which was received by Mount Rainier National Park Superintendent Dave Uberuaga."Congratulations to SCA for its long legacy of public land conservation," said Congressman Norm Dicks. "We commend them for their outstanding support in the recovery of Mount Rainier National Park."For more information about the volunteer program at Mount Rainier National Park, visit www.nps.gov/mora or rainiervolunteers.blogspot.com.
# # #
About SCAThe Student Conservation Association (SCA) is a nationwide conservation force of college and high school volunteers who protect and restore America’s parks, forests, and other public lands. For more than 50 years, SCA’s active, hands-on approach to conservation has helped to develop a new generation of conservation leaders, inspire lifelong stewardship, and save our planet. For more information, visit www.thesca.org.From The News Tribune:Volunteer brigade makes a difference at Mount RainierNearly 1,840 volunteers gave 70,130 hours of their time at Mount Rainier National Park this last fiscal year, which ended Sept. 30. That translates into $1.37 million worth of work, representing more than 10 percent of the park’s annual operating budget.... it is surprising, and pleasantly so, that the number of people who volunteered at the park went up 6.5 percent.... It’s great so many people turned out to help with flood recovery and other projects. There wasn’t nearly as much press coverage of the park’s need to drum up support, yet people still showed up.From the Seattle Times:Green Ethics: Values, hard workHarnessing enthusiasm and channeling talent is an extraordinary skill of the Student Conservation Association, which was honored this past spring by the Department of the Interior for its epic storm-recovery work at Mount Rainier National Park.... A drum roll would be appropriate because the park enjoyed the hands-on labor of 3,254 volunteers contributing 154,168 hours of heavy lifting and hard work repairing storm damage. Park management values the donated labor at more than $3 million.

Fall on Rainier

2008-11-18T09:58:00.000-08:00

BEAR DAY at PARADISE!

by sally Nov.10.2008 12:10:33 am

Taken on October 29th from Chinook Pass………

Here are some of my favorite fall photos from previous years.

Mouse over photos for information………….

Before you go any further…. let me remind you of the following information………

This photo from a previous year is where my bear adventure took place at Paradise. This is the lower paved trail into Edith Creek Basin area where there is a place to view Mrytle Falls.

Fall has come to the mountain! It’s beautiful presently! The mornings are cool, crisp and dewy! The daylight time is shorter with some downright cold evening weather. The “Caution - Roads are Icy” sign sits prominently at the national park entrance and also at Longmire to note that winter is just around the corner.

The weather has been unpredictable which is not uncommon during the month of October. There have been glorious sunny October days but unlike the month of September the sunny days stay only a day or two at a time. It has rained in the city and snowed at the mountain and yet the next day may bring warmth from the sun to melt ice or snow or dry the dew on the leaves.

The autumn colors are appearing everywhere around Mt. Rainier. The vine maples always make the biggest color statement but they were still not at their peak on Tuesday, October 14th when I visited. Paradise showed a fair amount of red low lying bushes and lots of foliage with yellow hues. But the greenish yellow told the tale that with more cold frosty mornings shades of orange and deep reds would soon appear on the slopes of the Paradise hills.

This year has been difficult for the mountain black bears! The huckleberries and blueberries didn’t ripen until mid September! The bears should have been eating berries starting in August to fatten themselves for their long winter hibernation. On this Tuesday in October, I didn’t see blueberries or huckleberries on the slopes above the Paradise Inn but instead some red berries I think are called elderberries. However, on an earlier September 26th visit to Paradise while hiking up the Deadhorse Creek Trail, I had feasted on both blueberries and huckleberries that were ripe and ready. Perhaps the cold chill made the berries drop off the bushes leaving just the red berries now for the bears. Presently, the bears are in an altered state of urgency honed into eating everything they can before their long winter nap. Thus stories of daily bear sightings are flooding in from everyone visiting Paradise as the bears eat the red elderberries voraciously. The bear reports are mostly noting the bears around Paradise are young yearling bears. A yearling bear is one that has been abandoned by the mother bear to begin their solitary bear life. The young bears seem not to be afraid of people unlike the older wiser bears. These young bears are “hanging out” around the paved lower trails and around the closed Paradise Inn populated by people most of the time. Therefore a trip to Paradise right now not only excites the senses for the beauty of the fall colors but also excites the sense of adventure of seeing a bear in the wild.

My short trip to Paradise on Tuesday, October 14th also became an adventure all about bears! The mountain was hidden behind a thin veil of clouds but the crisp fall air with its special scent from the dying foliage making autumn colors was plenty to make this trip well worth the drive. But the bear experience that unfolded at the beginning of the trail behind the Paradise Inn pushed the limits of excitement beyond my wildest dreams.

I was walking up the paved trail section behind the Paradise Inn toward Myrtle Falls and Edith Creek. Suddenly, around a curve in the paved path a bear came walking toward me.
I stood frozen with fear not knowing what to do. Scream? Run backward? Yikes, what was the right thing to do?? I didn’t have time to think because the bear kept walking toward me so I stopped moved to the side of the paved path and placed my tripod with camera attached down on the pavement and began snapping photos. What else could I do?

The bear kept walking toward me and when the bear was right beside me it stepped down off the pavement and veered down a bit away from me. But as soon as the bear was past me it walked back up onto the edge of the paved path with an obvious destination in mind. Unbelievable! I think my heart stopped for awhile as the bear past by me. I couldn’t remember the actual passing because of my extreme fright! After the bear walked past I realized its focus was on getting to a good elderberry patch. This young bear was totally unfazed by humans. I had read about this bear on Mike Gauthier’s Climbing Blog that is accessible on the right side of this blog page. This particular bear was brown with golden blonde hair sticking up in spiky points on its back neck that was an unusual sight! After seeing the photos on this blog, check out the latest posting on Mike’s blog to see another bear photo taken at Paradise.

My bear story should end here but it doesn’t! As I began leaving the parking area at Paradise while I was looking toward the Tatoosh Range, a small bear that was black darted out from behind the Paradise Inn in front of my car running to the opposite side of the road… I suspect to get more elderberries. I had to slam on my brakes since I was momentarily looking away from the Paradise Inn side of the road in order to not hit the bear with my car. Holy Cow! Or should I say……Holy Bear? What a bear day at Paradise!

I will let my series of BEAR PHOTOS show my story!
ENJOY!
Sally Johnson
Sally’s Photos
www.mtrainierphotos.com

Winter is just around the corner!

2008-11-02T10:23:00.000-08:00

With winter fast approaching, the crew here at Whittaker Mountaineering is getting geared up for ski and snowshoe season! What does that mean? Well, here in the foothills of Mount Rainier winter can arrive at any point now, and that means SNOW! Once that snow starts falling, we'll be out enjoying the wonderful winter recreation opportunities the local area provides. Did you know that North America's Largest No Fee Hut to Hut Ski Trail System is right in our backyard? That's right, the Mount Tahoma Ski Trail System has approximately 50 miles of trails perfect for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing which can be accessed from roads just outside of Ashford, Washington.

In addition to these trails, there are 3 Backcountry Huts that can be reserved for overnight stays. The first opportunity to reserve a hut for the upcoming season will be on November 15th at the 2008 MTTA Gala Fundraiser - don't miss it!

In addition to the MTTA trails, there are endless winter opportunities within Mount Rainier National Park ranging from hiking and snowshoeing to backcountry skiing and climbing. Access to the park via the Nisqually Entrance is open throughout the winter months and the road all the way to Paradise is plowed daily! For additional information, visit the Mount Rainier National Park Winter Recreation page.

Want to get out and enjoy these opportunities but don't have the equipment to do so? We rent snowshoes, cross-country skis, snowboards, and randonee skis, as well as winter essentials like tire chains, avalanche beacons, and winter clothing. Check out our rentals page for rates and more information!

Ready for another great winter but need to upgrade that old shell jacket? Want to stay warm on that winter camping trip but don't have the right insulated clothing? Or are you new to winter recreation and just looking for a pair of winter hiking pants? Whatever it is, here's a few recommendations for some great winter gear:

The Mountain Hardwear Hooded Compressor Jacket and Compressor Pant are lightweight and feature highly compressible synthetic insulation, making them ideal in conditions where moisture is a concern. They will easily disappear in your pack yet will provide incredible warmth, especially when layered under a waterproof shell. All of us here at the store refuse to venture out in the winter without at least one of these pieces, and the RMI Guides wear them all summer long while guiding on Mount Rainier.

In recent years, softshell pants have become the standard for winter hiking. There are a lot of different brands and models out there to choose from, but our favorites are the Mountain Hardwear Men's Makalu Pant and Women's Makalu Pant. These pants are constructed of a durable stretch nylon with a tightly woven face that keeps the wind out and easily sheds snow and light drizzles. Better still, the light fleece lining provides warmth for cold days yet still breathes well when the mercury rises.

Waiting for that rain to turn into snow? Stay dry with a waterproof shell like the Mountain Hardwear Pinnacle Jacket. It features welded construction to reduce weight and bulk, eliminating the need to tape seams. The hood is perfect for use with or without a helmet, and the superlight pit zips allow for easy temperature regulation throughout the day. A great jacket at a great price!

Be sure to visit us at Whittaker Mountaineering for updates on MTTA trail conditions, snow levels, and great clothing and equipment for your next adventure!

Information from www.mtrainierphotos.com

2008-09-15T12:23:00.000-07:00

Written on September 15th but photos were taken on 9-9-2008…………

Mouse over photos for information………..

Don’t forget to click on “Archives” on the left side of this posting for OTHER JOURNALS with photos! There are postings dating all the way back to last summer, fall and winter seasons with tons of photos. If you are visiting Mt. Rainier check out the journals from last year for information on what there is to see.

I have posted day hiking suggestions for September so check out my suggestions on the blog posting titled “8-18-2008 Day Hiking Suggestions”.

September is the start of the fall season in the Pacific Northwest with chilly mornings and moist wet dew on everything making you think it rained during the night. This September of 2008 the weather has been spectacular with bright sunny days warming up to the high 70’s or 80’s after evening temperatures plunging down to 40 degrees. Mount Rainier has been showing off to all the city folks in the Seattle – Tacoma area with awesome morning sunrises and nice pink sunsets with the moon close by increasing to full size.

Inside Mount Rainer National Park this September is particularly special! Due to the late snowfall in June and the long snow melting season that lasted into the middle of August, the summer flowers are blooming now in September! I have often seen what I call the “Clash of Seasons” where winter snow lays on top of autumn red, orange and yellow foliage, but never before have I seen big patches of lush summer flowers druring the fall season. The mountain meadow flowers normally peak at the end of July and beginning of August and are gone by the third week. Therefore, I am calling this September the “historical” autumn season at Mount Rainier National Park.

In between Reflection Lake and Paradise there are many mountain blueberries and huckleberries bushes that fatten the bears as they get ready for their winter hibernation. This September the berries are still a transparent green and will obviously not ripen after long lasting snow lingered until late summer. Without the berries the bears have moved higher toward Paradise this year and have been frequently seen around the Paradise trails. Next April in 2009 as the berry starved bears wake up from their long naps, I suspect, they will be ravenously hungry and unfortunately will quickly find food sources close to people.

With the hint of fall coming to the mountain from the yellow colors appearing on slopes near Paradise and some red vine maples along the Nisqually Road on September 9th, vibrant fall colors will soon decorate the park. Will the warm September weather keep the summer flowers blooming a while longer as the frosty mornings of autumn transform the bushes to fall colors of yellow, orange and red? Check back to see what happens in Mount Rainier National Park!

Written on September 15th after participating in Whittaker’s Rainier Mountain Festival in Ashford on the weekend……….
While at the festival, reports from people that had been hiking said the summer flowers were still blooming! Today, on Monday the 15th of September, the 80 degree weather continues into its second week! This is a glorious month so far!

Sally Johnson
www.mtrainierphotos.com

Fresh Snow!

2008-09-05T12:13:00.000-07:00

In the past two weeks we've had some unusual weather throughout the area. Freezing levels dropped significantly and fresh snow accumulated on the mountain as low as 7000 ft. There was even a slight dusting of snow at Paradise covering the wildflowers, although it didn't last long.

On the upper mountain, the new snow created some difficulties for climbers travelling above Camp Muir, but within a few days the Disappointment Cleaver route was back in shape. Rocky sections were once again covered in snow, speeding up travel and making the route even more enjoyable!

Here in Basecamp we're beginning to prepare for the 2008 Rainier Mountain Festival. If you've never made it out to the festival before, come join us! There's lots of crazy deals on new and used equipment, mountaineering slide shows and demonstrations from world class climbers, great food and drink, and live entertainment throughout the day! Oh, and don't forget the alpine games, book signings from mountaineering legends like Jim Whittaker, Lou Whittaker, and Ed Viesturs, and a huge raffle comprised of over $10,000 in gear!

http://www.whittakermountaineering.com/

Summer Climbing Update

2008-08-21T17:08:00.000-07:00

Even though labor day is fast approaching, we are happy to report that the climbing conditions on Rainier remain excellent. The Disappointment Cleaver Route has changed very little throughout the summer and is much more direct (i.e. shorter) than it was at the same time last year due to heavy spring snowfall. Get out on the mountain if you haven't had the chance yet this year!

While most climbers on Rainier take 2-3 days to climb a route like the Disappointment Cleaver, several local guides have made news recently by taking advantage of the route's direct conditions for setting new speed records. The previous record was held by former NPS climbing ranger Chad Kellogg, who in 2004 climbed from Paradise to the summit and back to Paradise in 4 hours, 59 minutes, and 1 second. While this seems unfathomable to most mortals, his record was broken not once, but twice this season! Check out this Seattle Times article about the friendly rivalry that has developed.

Thinking about climbing Rainier (at a more realistic pace) with RMI? Want to know what it's like to ascend the Disappointment Cleaver? RMI Guide Jenny Sherry was kind enough to take our helmet cam along on a climb earlier this month and captured some great footage that you can see here:

www.whittakermountaineering.com

Winter Climbing Stats on Mount Rainier

2008-03-30T13:26:00.001-07:00

This comes from Mike Gauthier. Thanks Mike

What happened to all of the winter climbers?
This winter has delivered some rather amazing weather and snow conditions. As we've noted, Mount Rainier has seen its fair share of extended snowstorms and extreme avalanche conditions. But lately, that trend hasn’t been the case. Over the past few weeks, the mountain has largely been blessed with beautiful days and clear nights. Swarms of visitors have been making the most of these sunny skies, warmer temps and rather calm weather. Ski and snowshoe trails lace the Paradise area and virtually every prominent vista has a few down-hill tracks below them. Even the ski boots tracks has been pretty deep on recent weekends. But what’s noticeable is the lack of boot and ski tracks venturing beyond Camp Muir. With only a few weeks left in March and the remaining days of winter rapidly slipping away, we’re wondering "What happened to all of winter climbers?" During the last "normal" winter '05-'06 (loosely defined as Dec 1 March 31) 185 climbers attempted the summit on Mount Rainier. This winter ('07-'08) our climbing attendance has precipitously dropped to a lowly 42 attempts! One wonders, is this a trend? After reviewing the past six years (with the exception of last winter when the primary road was entirely closed), the next lowest attendance was '03-'04 when only 104 climbers attempted to summit. That number is more than double what we're seeing this year. So what gives?Of the 42 climbers this winter, only 6 have been successful (a 14.3% success rate). That success rate falls within the historic average during the same time range (Dec 1 – March 30). The winter high on Mount Rainier was 23.3% during the '06-'07 season (oddly enough when the road was closed) and the low was 1.6% in '05-'06. The big story, however, is the notable drop in the number of climbers attempting the summit. This data backs up the anecdotal observations of those who frequent the Park. They say that people are just not coming in as large numbers as they used to. With the exception of a few busy weekends this winter, the park has not seen the overall visitation that is normally expected. Taking into account this season’s well publicized avalanche concerns, this is somewhat understandable. Let’s face it, December 2007 and most of 2008 have been a tough year for positive Rainier press… The winter started with one avalanche fatality and was promptly followed by numerous road closures and other warnings of high avalanche danger. Certainly, the media picked up the tempo. There was plenty of coverage in every major newspaper including even the New York Times. At the main visitor centers, the most common questions received relate to the weather and avalanche conditions. Many people are calling to check if "the Mountain" is even ‘OPEN’. YES, "the Mountain" is "OPEN" and by all accounts "the Mountain" is looking pretty darn good on these recent clear days. So, here are those climbers stats for the past few winters. These cover December 1 - March 31. By the way, we normally consider winter attempts from Dec 21 to March 20 (or whatever the exact "winter" season is).
2007-2008 - 42 climbers - 6 summited
2006-2007 - 17 climbers - 4 summited
2005-2006 - 185 climbers - 3 summited
2004-2005 - 208 climbers - 32 summited
2003-2004 - 104 climbers - 4 summited
2002-2003 - 230 climbers - 36 summited
2001-2002 - 137 climbers - 14 summited

www.whittakermountaineering.com

Mount Tahoma Trail Update

2008-03-15T12:07:00.001-07:00

Trail Report

March 15, 2008

Snow has returned to the trail and ski conditions are Great! Over the past three days the area around Copper Creek Hut has added 30 inches of new snow on top of an existing 7 foot base. Hut use drops off starting in April and if you have not yet stayed overnight at the Hut you may want to try and get a reservation. Ski conditions will be good well into May, but there is no public use after May 1.

Snow parking area is still located at the lower gate and will stay at that location for the next few weeks, maybe the rest of the season. The trails are being groomed, so come on out and enjoy the great snow conditions!

If you have any ideas on funding sources for the second new snow cat, please e-mail MTTA (mtta@skimtta.com).

One other item of interest is the Yurt is still standing after ½ dozen shoveling trips (see next newsletter), with a little luck it’s going to survive this winter because of a lot of very hard work from our volunteers.

Regards,
Bob Brown
Trail Operations Coordinator
Mount Tahoma Trails Association
mtta@skimtta.org
www.skimtta.org

Mount Rainier Paradise Report

2008-02-15T10:37:00.000-08:00

February 15, 2008For Immediate ReleaseDonna Rahier, 36-0569-2211, ext. 2301Paradise Area Projected to Reopen Sunday, February 17, 2008Mount Rainier National Park Superintendent Dave Uberuaga advises that theroad to Paradise will remain closed until Sunday, February 17. The road hasbeen closed to the public since February 7 when the heavy snowfall in theCascades increased the avalanche hazard to the point that it was extremelydifficult to keep the road safely open. At that time, Paradise had 189inches of snow on the ground and continued heavy snow, followed by a wet,warming trend further increased the avalanche danger.Over the weekend more than 10 natural avalanches released depositing heavy,dense snow in several areas between Longmire and Paradise. The park’s RoadCrew began the slow task of removing the avalanche debris along with thenew snow that had accumulated(up to 10 feet in some locations). Throughoutthe week they have continued to blow and plow snow to clear the roadways,the parking areas, pullouts and provide access to buildings. OtherMaintenance personnel spent the week shoveling the deep snow frombuildings, accessways, water and sewer plants, and hydrants and otherfacilities that have been buried.Snow removal and cleanup will continue today, as well as getting thesnowplay area groomed and ready for use. The last remaining hurdle is asatisfactory water supply test, which has to be confirmed by the State ofWashington before reopening to the public can occur. We expect thatconfirmation on Saturday.

Plastic Mountaineering Boots

2008-02-09T15:29:00.000-08:00

As many of you are finding out or have found out in the past 6 months, Koflach is no longer making plastic boots. We used Koflach boots in our rental fleet for the past 12 years, and are sorry to see them go. The one reason we liked Koflach is because in a rental fleet, they fit a wide range of feet well. Over the past 6 months, we have studied and tried the three remaining plastic boot companies to determine who we should go with in the future. We will carry Scarpa Inverno and Omega, Asolo AFS boots, along with the Lowa Cirvetta boots in our retail store. We have decided to carry the Scarpa Inverno boots in our rental fleet and will recommend the Scarpa Inverno with high alititude liners for those who are going to Denali. We are also in the midst of getting feedback from a dozen or so mountain guides in regards to the leather boot world. We carry some leather boots, but after we collect our data from the past 12 months we will be recommending leather options for Rainier and other mountains.

Sizing plastic boots can be very confusing below you will find sizing info for the Scarpa Boots

Sizing:

Scarpa manufactures its boots in whole AND half sizes, but the markings on the boots and packaging can be confusing. Here are several things to be aware of when you receive your new boots:

The sizes listed on the packaging and the boot components are given in UK sizes. UK sizes are one full size smaller than US sizes. Example: A size 10 UK is a size 11 US, and a size 10.5 UK is a size 11.5 US.
The inner boot (liner) is made in whole and half sizes. It is clearly labeled in UK sizes on the back of the ankle.
The outer shell boot is only made in whole sizes. Therefore, any half size boots use an outer shell that is one half size bigger than the inner boot. Example: A size 10.5 boot uses a size 10.5 inner boot and a size 11 outer shell. Sizes can be found in two places on the outer shell. The most obvious one is inside the collar of the boot (the flexible, hinged ankle portion). However, this is not the true size of the boot; it is simply the collar size. The true boot size is found just below the collar on inside of the main portion of boot, again in UK sizes.

Confused? Here is one final example: You ordered a size 9.5 US boot. The inner boot will be labeled 8.5, and the outer shell will be labeled 9. There may also be a small gold sticker on the outside of the shell identifying the boot as an 8.5.

Fit:

Be sure to wear appropriate socks when trying your boots on. We recommend a well-cushioned wool sock layered over a thin liner sock. When you lace your boots up, be sure to leave them loose around your ankle to allow for movement and to avoid bruising your shins. Walk around: your boots should feel loose but not sloppy. Unlike hiking boots or ski boots, it is normal for your heel to lift up inside of the boot when you walk. Now kick the toe of the boot into the ground: if your toes hit hard into the front of the boot, they may be too small. Remember, your feet will swell throughout the day, so it is a good idea to try your boots on after a long day on your feet.

Still confused about sizing? Not sure if the boots fit? Give us a call with any questions at 800-238-5756.

Snow anyone?

2008-02-07T15:06:00.000-08:00

Mount Rainier National Park News Release

February 7, 2008
For Immediate Release
Lee Taylor 360-569-2211 x.6131

Road to Paradise Closed by Heavy Snow
February 7, 2008—Like the rest of the Cascades, Mount Rainier National Park has been buried by snow in recent weeks. Paradise, at 5,400 feet, has received at least a foot of snow every day since January 28 except for one.
More than 156 inches --13 feet -- of snow has fallen in the past 11 days!
"We’re closing the road from Longmire to Paradise to protect park visitors," said park Superintendent Dave Uberuaga. "Continuous winter storms have increased the avalanche hazards and made it very difficult to keep the road open.
Heavy mountain snow and windy conditions are expected to extend through Friday and into the weekend.
"We have the plows and drivers necessary to clear the snow, and we will reopen the road as soon as conditions improve," said Uberuaga.
With 189 inches of snow already on the ground at Paradise, one thing is for certain. Once the weather finally clears, snow play conditions at Paradise will be truly heavenly!
To check road and weather information at Mount Rainier National Park call
360-569-2211 and then select 1.

Mount Tahoma Trail Update

2008-01-31T15:07:00.001-08:00

Trail Report

January 30, 2008

We now have seven to ten feet of snow up at the huts, with another two or three feet forecast prior to this weekend. The heavy snow has resulted in the snow park being moved 1.2 miles back down the road from the normal snow park (outhouse parking area). There is just too much snow, with no place to push it!

Getting to the hut from the current snow park requires 5.5 miles and a 1600-foot vertical climb. The first 2.5 miles from the snow park is being snowmobile groomed, once you reach the section of trail being groomed by our new snow cat you can expect approximately 20 miles of professionally groomed trails.

There is a narrow section that keeps our snow cat from accessing the lower 2.5 miles of trail.

If you are planning a trip to Copper Creek Hut you should consider the extra 1.2 miles and additional 600 vertical feet.

Once you reach the snow cat grooming, ski conditions are great! Normal winter snow fall from this point forward is going to result in record snow fall for our system this year. We will have a good skiable base well into May this year.

Check out our High Hut web cam which has been working lately. Our web page is being updated and you should check it out from time to time for current information.

Make sure you have tire chains and allow some extra time for your trip!

See you out on the trail.

Trail and Road update

2008-01-17T16:43:00.001-08:00

A Quick update for you.
The MTTA trails on the Northside are well groomed and in excellent shape right now. The plan is for DNR to plow to the upper snowpark on Friday Jan 18th, YEAH
Paradise is covered with over 140 inches of snow and 40 inches at Longmire. The sledding at Paradise has been great.

For you mountaineers, who are planning a Summer 08 trip, the snow pack is about normal and everything looks good so far.

Mount Tahoma Ski Trail Information

2007-11-29T15:09:00.000-08:00

Whittaker Mountaineering just recieved information about the MTTA Trail Conditions here it is. For those who don't know the trail system is just above Whittaker Mountaineering.

Trail Report

November 29, 2007

Today there was 8” of snow at the 92 road snow park and 2 feet up at Copper Creek Hut. The trails should all be groomed tomorrow and the road to the snow park is scheduled to be plowed today. We are in great need of donations to pay for grooming fuel (currently almost $4 per gallon in Ashford)!!!! Our funds are very low because of the unexpected need to purchase a plow blade to keep the snow park access roads open.

You might want to check out the High Hut web cam after 6 pm today, with luck and some adjustments we may have a current picture of the snow conditions at High Hut. Also see the copper creek picture attached for a pic taken today.

Are your skis and snowshoe’s ready? Today we had three inches of snow at the 92 road snow park and the forecast calls for snow on and off the rest of the week. Copper Creek hut is ready for the winter, the solar panel is charging the batteries, the propane tank is full, and all the new renovations (laminated wood floors, new tables & chairs, etc.) are ready for your use. New trail post and signs have been installed! Most of the trails between the snow park and the hut have been brushed out. All we need is snow and we are ready for business.

The long lead forecast for the entire winter calls for an excellent snow pack, good skiing all winter.

All of MTTA’s grooming equipment is ready to go and our new snow cat will be out on the trail by January 1, 2008. We still have $10,500 in sales tax to pay on the new snow cat. This by its self is a good reason to mail a donation.

For our trail to be successful we need three components to come together. The Hut must be in good order to handle our visitors, the trails from the snow park to the hut need to be groomed, and the roads from the main highway to the snow parking area needs to be plowed. Because of your help and donations we have all the major components in place.

One surprise that came upon us late this fall was our road plow contractor going out of business. Many of you may not understand how the roads to the snow parks are kept plowed. You purchase a snow park permit and those funds are used to plow the roads. This plowing is accomplished by private contractors hired by the agencies receiving grant funds. The Dept. of Natural Resources has received grants to plow the MTTA access road for many years. When their contractor informed them he would not be plowing this season they had to put out a request for snow plow bids. They did this twice and received no bids. Without a private contractor to do the plowing we (MTTA & DNR) were faced with a major problem.

DNR and MTTA have developed a partnership which is able to adapt to problems. DNR didn’t have any money in their budget to purchase a plow blade, but they did have a truck available. MTTA purchased a blade and DNR installed the blade. This year a DNR employee will be plowing the road with their truck and the (yellow) plow blade which MTTA purchased. If you can’t get to the snow parking areas, you have no trail!
Because of you donations of cash and volunteer labor we have a new snow cat to groom the trails. With DNR’s help we have a solution to keep the access roads plowed.

MTTA had to spend $6000 to purchase the new plow blade and this has left us very short on cash. With fuel running almost $4 per gallon we need your help to keep things running. Please consider mailing a donation today, Make checks payable to: MTTA and mail to P O BOX 206, Ashford, WA 98304. You can also go to our web page and use PayPal to make a donation via your credit card.

See you on the trail!

Regards,
Bob Brown
Trail Operations Coordinator
Mount Tahoma Trails Association
mtta@skimtta.org
www.skimtta.org

Mount Rainier Snowshoe

2007-11-13T11:43:00.000-08:00

Whittaker Mountaineering is pleased to see new snow arriving about 5000 ft. It is time to dust of the snowshoes and XC skis. Paradise will be open for snowshoeing this winter. We will update this blog with information frequently about conditions. Make sure to check out our weather page as well.

Mount Rainier Route Weather Update Whittaker Mountaineering

2007-08-23T10:09:00.000-07:00

Rainier Update 08/22/2007
A persistent marine cloud layer and cooler temperatures have been the trend on Mount Rainier this summer. Though we have not experienced a significant snowfall (it can snow 3 to 4 feet on the upper mountain), we did pick up 5 to 6 inches of snow above 11,000’ several days ago. The winter snow pack on the Muir snowfield is rapidly melting and patches of firm snow and ice are emerging, particularly around Moon Rocks at 9,000’. While the ice is a bit challenging, our guided teams are navigating around these sections and are able to do so without crampons.
From Camp Muir at 10,000’, the route traverses the Cowlitz Glacier. Several small crevasses are crossed as the trail ascends Cathedral Gap and onto the Ingraham Flats at 11,000’. From here the route drops down under Disappointment Cleaver, descending about 400 vertical feet. Once under the Cleaver, a series of switchbacks ascend the Emmons Glacier, up to about 11,500’, and take climbers to a new section of the route that was put in last week. The new trail works it way north on an ascending traverse which gains the Emmons Shoulder at around 11,800’. After several more switchbacks this new trail connects with the old route at around 12,400’. Here, the trail switchbacks up the shoulder and begins to traverse south at approximately 13,000’. These switchbacks are well established as they cross the upper Ingraham glacier and finish at Columbia Crest.
All in all, the route offers very typical late season climbing, and we expect similar conditions through the end of the climbing season.

Rainier Mountain Festival

2007-08-08T14:38:00.000-07:00

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

Contact:
Jeremy Foust
Whittaker Mountaineering
PO BOX W
Ashford, Wash 98304
jeremy@whittakermountaineering.com
http://www.rainierfestival.com
PH (360) 569-2142
FAX (360) 569-2982

Sixth Annual Rainier Mountain Festival Features Top Climbers

Ashford, Wash., Wednesday, August 8, 2007

What: 2007 Rainier Mountain Festival
When: September 15 and 16, 2007
Where: Rainier Basecamp, 30027 SR 706 E, Ashford, Wash.
How Much: Admission is Free

For more info: www.rainierfestival.com

The Sixth Annual Rainier Mountain Festival will again feature a great gathering of American Mountaineers on September 15 and 16 in Ashford, Wash. Noted climbers will include Jim Whittaker (first American to summit Everest), Ed Viesturs (first American to climb all fourteen 8,000 meter peaks without oxygen), Lou Whittaker (American climbing legend and founder of Rainier Mountaineering Inc), and over 15 other climbers who have stood on top of Everest. The climbers will be hosting films and slide shows, signing books, and conducting equipment demonstrations.
Other activities at the festival will include a ‘Post-Monsoon’ equipment and clothing clearance sale, a 5-mile run, Alpine Games, climbing wall for all ages, BBQ and local brews, live entertainment, raffles, mountaineering travel displays, kids’ games. A raffle will be done throughout the event and proceeds will go towards trail restoration in Mount Rainier National Park. Admission is free for all events except for the 5-mile run.
The festival will take place at Rainier Basecamp in Ashford, Wash., just outside of Mount Rainier National Park.
Alpine Game events will include a head to head speed climbing event, timed tent erecting, sled pulls, and speed rope coiling, and winners will receive cash prizes.

Contact:
Jeremy Foust, Jeremy@whittakermountaineering.com
800-238-5756