ALPINE ASCENTS BLOG

• Boots for Mount Rainier: Singles or Doubles?

  Easily the most common question we are asked is, “What kind of boots will I wear on my Rainier climb?” Here, we break down how we decide. Two Boot Types We use two main types of boots in Washington’s Cascades Range, which includes Mount Rainier and Mount Baker among other peaks: double boots and single […]

• The Notebook: When should I climb Rainier?

  Alpine Ascents climbs Mount Rainier from May through September. We are often asked which dates to choose, so here we break down the merits of each month. Mount Rainier’s Climbing Season(s) Mount Rainier can be climbed year-round. For climbers willing to adventure, even the more challenging shoulder seasons can provide interesting climbing or skiing. A […]

• Hardshells: Waterproof Pants & Jackets

  Why do we use full-zip hardshell pants for alpine climbing? What exactly are hardshells, anyway? What features are important in hardshell jackets or pants? Why is it important not to bring half or quarter-zip hardshell pants into the high mountains? Here we answer some common questions with a few anecdotes and a few unavoidable facts. […]