I know it's still a year away but I want it so badly... Unfortunately, none of my friends are willing to take me up on the attempt. I've never climbed a big mountain before, spending some time on a few summer accents of Mt Washington as well as some time in the ADKs. Having a lot of time to prepare, I plan on training through the winter and spring next year. I'll be taking an EMS advanced mountaineering class this winter at Lake Placid as well as doing winter climbing in the High Peaks and NH.
Basically, I'm just trying to get a feel for what kind of fitness level goal to shoot for and what to expect out of a guide service since I can't attempt this mountain on my own. I'd rather not shell out the $ but it seems a realistic and safer option at this point. I'd like to make an attempt from the DC route. Any suggestions as far as guide services and fitness goals? I bought the dvd Train to climb Mt Rainier and plan to start after my class in January.
Thanks in advance!