JonW wrote:I've seen and heard of individual climbers getting on other private party's rope teams while at Camp Muir. These have been either solo climbers or an individual member of a team who's team members have decided not to go on to the summit. I have not seen a climber message board in Ashford or Paradise. People are more likely to take you on if you appear fit and knowledgeable. Obviously, there's a risk for a team to take on an unknown climber since it might cost them the summit if the climber is not fit enough to make it. I suppose you could hang around Paradise in an attempt to find a team, but I would put your chances of success at pretty low. I think your chances are higher at Camp Muir. I'm not sure how I would react to being approached by a lone climber in the parking lot.
You mentioned you have a partner lined up, are you anxious about climbing in a two-man team? I wouldn't count on finding a solo climber to hop on your rope. If you appear fit and knowledgeable, it's likely you could find another two-man team to travel with to serve as a backup rescue team. The DC is quite crowded and there are usually people around.
Thanks.
Regarding the two-person team, there would actually be two other people, only one of whom I know already.
I'm predominantly a solo hiker/climber. Most people aren't hardcore enough for me. (though I'm not a technical, class 5 climber by any means).