Bdubs

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Looking to get out and climb some of the less-technical glacier routes available in WA. Since I'm out of school for the summer and have a flexible work schedule, I'm free to climb pretty much any time before I leave for college (late August). I took a 6 day mountaineering course with American Alpine Institute a month ago and summited Baker - that's the extent of my experience on glaciated terrain. I have a little bit of experience on outdoor rock (just beginning to lead easy sport routes) and have spent a solid amount of time in the gym. Also, I'm an Eagle Scout and have backpacked/hiked heavily over the last few years, so I'm no stranger to the outdoors. If you are interested in getting out and climbing, send me a message!

So I'm looking into buying my first pair of mountaineering boots, and I'm looking at leathers. Really I just have a couple questions about fit of boots so I can be more knowledgeable as I look around. Should they fit tight like a glove or somewhat loose? Also, is there any amount of light toe bang that is acceptable or should my toes not even come close to ever touching the end? I have one foot that is noticeably longer than the other so I figure I'll need to compromise on fit somewhat.

I am planning on doing a training hike up to Muir pretty soon, and maybe want to camp there for a night. I know I only need to get a wilderness permit since I'm not climbing past Muir, but are these permits limited? Or do I just show up to the RS in Longmire and get one?

Alright, thanks! I guess I just needed some reassurance that finding online partners can work out well

So I'm new to climbing, and don't really know anyone who climbs. I'm not sure how I feel about finding partners online, but I'm not really sure where else to go. The mountaineers looks alright but I don't want to take their basic climbing class (I'm taking a class through a guide instead). What should I do to find some partners?

Sounds good!

Looking to get into climbing this year. I will be taking a 6 day course on Baker with American Alpine Institute in mid-June when I'm done with school, and hope to do as much summer climbing as I can after that. I do not have any glacier travel experience at this point, but am an Eagle Scout and have done a solid amount of backpacking over the last couple years (around 50 nights). One of my backpacking trips was 3-weeks of difficult hiking in the 7,000-12,500 ft range with 45-55 pound pack, I lead a 1.5 week trip in the same area, and I have a good base of general outdoor knowledge/experience. I'm looking to climb Baker (during my climbing class), Adams, some other introductory Cascade peaks, and Rainier (my main hope). I am currently getting into better shape, practicing my knots and reading up on mountaineering skills/techniques. I value safety over all else and appreciate any advice or help! If any of you wouldn't mind a novice tagging along later in the year, that'd be sweet! Thanks!

Alright, thanks again for all the suggestions! I turns out I can't take the mountaineers class anyway, so I'm thinking I will take a course through American Alpine Institute. However, how do you guys suggest I try to meet people to climb with?

Alright...I'm leaning towards the Tacoma mountaineers course again. Mostly for potential contacts

Thanks for the response! Part of me is leaning towards the mountaineers for the contacts, but another part of me is leaning towards a guide because I feel I may learn more. Also, what I have found on the site about the mountaineers worries me a bit to be honest.

I am currently torn between which introductory mountaineering course I should sign up for. I am between the Tacoma Mountaineers basic course, American Alpine Institute, and Alpine Ascents. I know the AAI and AA courses are better, but the Mountaineers course is cheaper and seems to allow for good climbing opportunities afterwards. I wont be able to climb much until I graduate high school in June, and being so young I am a bit worried about finding climbing partners/opportunities in the summer (hence the attractiveness of the mountaineers). I would appreciate if you all would share your opinions and knowledge of the different classes with me, along with any tips you may have. Thanks!