We met at basecamp at 8 and waited for the guides to finish up a quick guide meeting. Took the opportunity for a quick pose in front of our guide service's sign.
They shuttled us and our gear up to Paradise, elevation ~5200 feet. From there we hiked about 45 minutes up to ~6100 feet to a lower snowfield ideal for the training.
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| Yes, the camera is pointing up |
Our day was spent learning and practicing several mountaineering techniques for safety, rescuing, and climbing efficiency. Examples include team arrest positions, how to self-arrest with our ice axe, climbing in the snow/ice with crampons, and special breathing techniques. We also practiced team rope ascents and descents. Here's Jenothy sliding headfirst down a slope getting ready to stop herself by using a self-arrest method we learned.
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| Better stop before that crevasse just outside the picture frame! |
After all the training, 2 of the 3 guides (facing the picture), reminded us that tomorrow's focus is NOT the summit, but to get to Camp Muir and feel good. He advised to take care of ourselves not only tonight, but also with every step and rest break we take on the way to Muir.
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| Nice shot of Rainier in the background, still not much justice here. It's big. |
Reminder that once we leave tomorrow, there will not be any posts until Wednesday night (if we can function!). So stay tuned!
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