Sunday, June 27, 2010

Calm as a Cucumber

Today was yet another great day on Rainier!  With more great weather today, the climb reached the summit around 7:10 this morning.  RMI guide, Mike Tomlinson reported that the teams began their ascent around 1:15am with a perfectly clear sky and full moon illuminating the snow covered mountain.  Mike said the temperature was mild and it was "calm as a cucumber" when they left Camp Muir.  The freezing level was high today - around 12000' - so the snow was not particularly firm even in the wee hours of the morning.  Mike said there are a couple exciting snow bridges around 11400' and 11600' along the route.  Once on top, climbers experienced a bit of wind, around 30 mph but great views all around.  Upon descending the route, everyone had awesome views of other peaks poking through a marine cloud layer around 7000'.  The teams were able to glissade most of the Muir Snowfield today, making the descent not only easier but faster as well!

Congratulations on reaching the top today everyone!

1 comment:

Unknown said...

This was my first summit attempt on Rainier and I have to admit that it was a thrilling experience!
Thanks to Mark, Mike, Pat, Malie, Gabi, and Miles for leading us up to a safe and successful summit!

Justin Dimmer