Emmons Route

Rainier’s Wild Side

The Emmons Glacier route offers a longer, quieter approach to the summit of Mount Rainier. Climbers travel through lowland forest, glacier moraine, and sprawling icefields before reaching camp high on the mountain’s eastern flank. This collection features the gear built for multi-day travel, crevasse crossings, and colder conditions on Rainier’s biggest glacier.

Train and Climb with RMI

RMI’s Emmons Expedition Skills Seminar blends technical training with a full summit climb. Over six days, climbers learn glacier travel, crevasse rescue, and team movement while tackling one of Rainier’s most scenic and demanding routes.

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Rent for the Emmons Route

Our Ashford rental shop has everything you need for the Emmons Seminar — boots, crampons, packs, and more. All gear is guide-maintained, fitted in-house, and ready for cold multi-day glacier travel.

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The RMI Emmons Gear List

This collection mirrors RMI’s official gear list for the Emmons Expedition Skills Seminar — layering, protection, and camp systems designed for colder nights and extended glacier travel.

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Emmons Route FAQ

The Emmons Glacier route demands endurance and preparation — colder camps, longer glacier travel, and higher exposure than Rainier’s standard route. Here are answers to common gear questions from Emmons climbers.

What boots are best for the Emmons Route?

Double mountaineering boots are recommended. The route’s colder camps and longer glacier exposure make the extra insulation worth the weight. Single boots can work in warmer stretches, but confirm conditions with your guides before deciding.

What sleeping bag rating do I need?

Choose a 0°F bag. Nights at Emmons Camp Schurman are significantly colder than at Muir, and you’ll want dependable insulation for multi-night use. Pair it with a high-R-value pad for full comfort.

How should I layer for a six-day seminar?

Bring a flexible four-part system: baselayer, active midlayer, warm puffy, and waterproof shell. The Guide to Mountain Layering explains how to adapt each piece for climbing, rest, and camp conditions.

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