You could try something on the north side of Rainier, like Liberty Ridge.

If you survive that, you could have two extra spa days in Seattle. Forget Adams, you can do it next time!

I second the Liberty Ridge suggestion! Why fool around with the DC?

Actually, my idea of a spa day would be to "hang out" in downtown Seattle .. ....

[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tsM33sAAI7c[/youtube]

lcarreau wrote:You could try something on the north side of Rainier, like Liberty Ridge.

If you survive that, you could have two extra spa days in Seattle. Forget Adams, you can do it next time!

A good sense of humour. Why would he need IMG guides to do DC then?

Anyway, lcarreau is correct, I would not bother with any mountains unless you know what you want. However, I would go to Mt Rainier and hike up to Camp Shurman and/or to Camp Muir, one day each. Or even better stay in the public shelter overnight at Camp Muir (free but advanced reservation may be required). Spending a night or two at around 10,000 feet would give you best acclimatization option and get you ready for the summit. You just need a sleeping-bag, some food and extra water if you have no stove to melt the snow.

Consider the Goat Rocks. More of an uphill hike than a climb but beautiful scenery and wildflowers very close to Mt. Rainier.

Mount Adams is doable but consider a couple things before you go. How much experience do you have with high altitude climbing? Have you ever done something of similiar difficulty? There are a lot of less intense options that will fulfill that time without risking your trip up Rainier.

My thought is come in maybe a couple days earlier and make Adams a two-day trip so that it will help you acclimate to higher elevations. Make sure to invite others. I know for a fact Josh Lewis would like another round up Adams! I'd bet if you paid his fee he'd even carry your gear!!!!!

EastKing wrote:I know for a fact Josh Lewis would like another round up Adams! I'd bet if you paid his fee he'd even carry your gear!!!!!

He's right. If I had a ride to Mount Adams, I'd even be willing to be a "sherpa" for free. I've been one before.