Looks Like it Might Be Mt. Baker

So, media conferences aside, where do I/we go next. After much research, and the unfortunate news of the RMI Rainier sellout, I found Alpine Ascents. They have a cool site and guide all over the world. They have slide shows, cybercasts, and a whole lot of information.

I was looking for a moderate climb, since Rainier wasn't available, and I think I have settled on Mt. Baker. At 10,781 ft., its smaller than Rainier but offers the real climbing experience. 65lb packs, camping on the mountain for two nights, early morning ascents, skills training etc.

The big open question is who's going. I am definitely in. My partner just started a new work gig and is far from committed to the climb. Brothers-in-law? Friends? Husbands of friends? All are welcome, who will climb?

So, Whats next?

Not really sure. I called RMI Guides (www.rmiguides.com) and they told me, much to my dismay, that all Rainier trips are booked for this year. So, what to do, what to do. Do we climb with someone else? NO! You can't climb Rainier without RMI, the best known guiding company in the USA, and perhaps the world.

So we research. Mt. Baker, Grand Teton, Mt Whitney, who knows. We are working through it right now. By early next week, we should have a plan.

Then, getting into shape really has to kick in to high gear. Maybe Core Performance program.