Mount Rainier Summit

The official elevation for the summit of Mt. Rainier is 14,411 feet. In order to reach the top of The Mountain, climbers must cross active glaciers using ropes, crampons, ice axes, prusiks and climbing helmets. Each climber must have proper clothing, a harness and boots. Other then having the knowledge to use all this equipment, it is essential that all climbers be in excellent shape. Then, backcountry permits must be acquired and a climbing fee paid. Fees vary from year to year so check https://www.nps.gov/mora/planyourvisit/climbing.htm by February the year of the planned ascent. In 2015, 10,025 people attempted to climb Mt. Rainier; 4,888 of them actually reached the summit. The two most popular routes up The Mountain are the Disappointment Cleaver route starting from Paradise and Emmons-Winthrup Glacier Route departing from the White River Campground. The majority of the ascent is done in the dark, with climbing groups leaving high camp around midnight. Most groups tend to fixate on achieving the summit making photo opportunities during the climb limited to rest stops. On the way back down, climbers need to be quick when crossing avalanche prone areas and stopping for the perfect photo is just too hazardous to consider. Finally, if unfamiliar with The Mountain or in need of the proper equipment, it is wise to look to one of the guide services to lead you up to the summit.

• Know the best times, seasons & shooting conditions
• Detailed directions - maps, co-ordinates and directions
• Know how to get there - where to park or how to reach there using public transport
• Browse inspirational photos and learn how they were taken - see the EXIF details
• Bookmark your favourite spots for future reference
• Know exactly when to shoot for beautiful photographs - sunrise, sunset, blue hour and astrophotography
• Detailed, 7-day weather forecast at this location
• Share your images with like-minded travel photographers

Essential Information

Web links

http://www.nps.gov/mora/index.htm