Open Air Life

The Tatoosh Range in the Central Washington Cascades lives in the shadow of Mt. Rainier, both figuratively and literally.  In the park, approximately 7 miles south of 'big brother' Rainier, the peaks of the Tatoosh are well worth a visit.  Most of them can be bagged via hiking routes in the summer, unless a more technical route is chosen.  There are two distinct 'areas' of the Tatoosh Range, and while an energetic party can actually summit several of them in a long-day traverse of the Range, I've separated them here based on your approach.  You'll need a basic alpine set-up, ax and crampons, a half-rope will suffice for most parties.

Climbing might seem daunting.  I know.  I teach new climbers to swallow their fears and pull on plastic holds 35 feet above the ground.  But these climbers have made it over the hump.  They have elbowed their way through the strange and pricey gear.  They have decided to step out of their comfort zone, and most importantly they have decided to look past the stereotype.  The attitude beaning hipster with a harness is often the most common reason potential climbers either back out of the gym door, or decide to stay grounded while their buddies dance on the rock in front of them.  Personal sports are fueled by ego, and climbing has it's fair share.