Kraken

I've got a really nice 10.2mm Maxim dry rope, but if I don't have to lug that thing up nearly 10000 feet of Rainier ice and rock, I won't. Would you suggest I get an 8mm rope?

Hey everyone. I'm a lifelong Washingtonian who left the state to attend college in Alaska after graduating HS in 2003. I've discovered the wonders of hte outdoors up here including ice climbing. This is my first season and I'm already leading WI4s and have all the gear (including a sexy pair of vipers!) Anyways, I'm coming down to WA for two weeks for spring break and want to continue climbing ice. I've scoured google and the web, searched for that book "Washington Ice: A climbing guide" everywhere, but can't find it. I will be in my hometown of bremerton in Kitsap County on the peninsula. I'm willing to drive a few hours for a weekend of ice. I've heard that I-90 has some good climbs, baker, etc. I was thinking over the pass in the columbia valley, i've heard there is spectacular ice there. Considering that this winter has been quite warm, i'm skeptical of the amount of ice anywhere near the puget sound. I've just really got to do some climbing when i'm down in my old home, and i want suggestions. There aren't a whole lot of resources online that i've been able to find, and any input would be GREATLY appriciated. I'm a solid climber and, if you are looking for a partner for a weekend or a day...anything, let me know. Hell, maybe I can even return the favor if anyone ever comes to Alaska

awesome job guys!!! I'll be venturing down to WA in mid march for two weeks. I'm going to attempt a summit via the Gib chutes/ledges. Your description helped a lot! Hopefully I can get a weather window like yours. I've lived in WA my entire life, and I came up to Alaska to go to college. My goal to climb rainier came after i left the state and started discovering the outdoors of Alaska. Depending on my success on Rainier, I might climb Denali this summer or next.