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| Track Log from 6/30/2019 |
The Emmons-Winthrop route is in good shape as the season progresses, with a few places of note that Rangers encountered while climbing on June 30th.The first is the traverse above the Corridor. The route traverses climbers' right around two bulges of blue ice. This traverse, while not technical, would be consequential if a fall occurred. Parties might consider placing running protection through this section. As the snow melts, it will be difficult to protect this traverse without ice screws.
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| Possible variations at approx 13,100' on the Emmons Winthrop Route. To the left is the steeper bergshrund crossing, and to the right is the easy traverse towards the saddle. |
The next point of note is around 13,100'. The trail splits and some parties have been going climbers left and directly up the bergschrund. This variation is steep and may require two-tool climbing. The main route branches towards climber's right and traverses through much easier terrain towards the saddle and eventually the summit.
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| A large crevasse crossing at 13,500' on the Emmons-Winthrop Route. In this photo the ranger has left the boot-track to utilize a safer snow bridge. |
The weather has been changing rapidly on the upper mountain, ranging from thunderstorms to June-uary snowstorms! There has been 3" of new snow at Camp Schurman and up to 10" reported on the upper mountain in the past two days. The new snow has complicated route-finding somewhat, so be prepared to choose your own adventure should you get the opportunity to re-establish the route! It's been a good reminder that climbers attempting Mt. Rainier should be prepared for cold temps and decreased visibility regardless of what the month of the year may suggest.
It's beautiful up here, and we expect a busy weekend as folks come up during the long weekend. Please remember to be prepared, tread lightly, and leave-no-trace during your visits to your National Parks this weekend!
