tmaxwell wrote:This is all great info on the rope. But I would point out 2 on glacier is not that wise, 2 including a novice on a glacier is very unwise. 3 or more is best with at least one of them being experienced.

+1 get a 60m rope and recruit at least 2 more friends into your team for your first Rainier climb. weight becomes a non-issue. if there are at least 4 of you, bring a light 30m rope as a backup in case someone has to bail.