2026 Seeking partners for June-August / General questions for cascade mountaineers :)

[bromansalaam]

About me

24m, I've done Pico de Orizaba (19000ft/5800m), Izta, and Mount Elbert CO in the winter. I also rock climb frequently if that makes any difference. I'm planning on doing a trip to do Ranier, Baker & St Helens with the ultimate goal of building up my skills to tackle Denali. 

At this point, I know I definitely lack some technical knowledge necessary to summit Ranier such as crevasse rescue and navigation. But nonetheless would like to attempt to tackle it. I'm not a total gumby though — I have done a few high elevation peaks w/ crampons, a high level of fitness & am comfortable organizing the proper gear.

I was planning on going late August, since that's when I turn 25 and can avoid the under 25 fee for renting a car. But I also heard that can be a dangerous time of season due to rockfall and widening crevasses. Part of me thinks I should just get a guide, but I dislike the handholding and lack of agency that comes with hiring a guide, not to mention the cost. 

So if you would like to tackle Ranier this season, or have some wisdom to spare to someone of my situation, I would greatly appreciate it! 

contact loucks12345 [at] gmail

Edited 1 hour ago by bromansalaam
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[Albert_Pynstardt]

Rainier’s season has been getting shorter due to glacial wasting and recession. I personally would not attempt the standard routes on Rainier past June; even earlier for many other routes. This season is likely to be particularly short due to the snow drought in the western U.S.

Also, I would skip St Helens.