Rookie Here

Hi All,

I posted this in the "Climbing" forum as well which I hope does not disrupt anything. I'm new to this forum. I've become very intrigued by mountaineering, of recent. I have little to no mountaineering experience. I'm 26 and in good shape. I have done a fair amount of strenuous backpacking (Quetico - canoeing; Chimanimani Mountains - Zimbabwe; Colorado, etc) but nothing that would qualifyy as mountaineering, per se.

My question is this: I've been looking at guided expeditions on Mt. Rainier, since through my research this seems to be considered a good jumping off point for people who are interested in this passtime. Is this a reasonable place for an in-shape novice to start(In addition to the research and conditioning I need to do)? I saw that a few outfits even offered McKinley prep courses (that include Ranier summits).

Any suggestions are much appreciated.

Thanks,

Mbutz60

I believe there are a few hiking clubs in Seattle that meet and do day hikes.. I'd probably start there, and even on Myspace (may sound wierd, but its effective)

Thanks, travelnate! I'll definitely check it out.

I've heard of guided trips up Shasta and a few others for pretty cheap (on the order of $500 I believe). Of course you usually get what you pay for so I would imagine that there would have to be some sacrifices such as an overly big group. Still might be worth researching.