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  • Gearhouse | Outdoor Gear Rentals Seattle | Seattle Social Club

    Gear up, Meet up and Get Out: Your Seattle Outdoor Social Club View Our Calendar Public Gear Rental Now accepting applications from adventurous souls All folks are welcome, we're all-in A Social Club for the Wild Seeking Gearhouse is so much more than a Seattle Social Club. It’s a gathering place for adventurers of all experience levels. A place to make new friends, explore the outdoors, learn new skills, and adventure more together, no matter how big or small your gear closet. Affordable Outdoor Gear Rentals Say goodbye to overspending on gear, sacrificing your free time on trip planning, and relying on reluctant friends to join your adventures. Gearhouse was born to accelerate the time it takes to collect specialty gear, learn new skills, and find your adventure pals. Community Centered Adventure Community is at the core of Gear House. Better than renting & more sustainable than buying, we’ve developed a revolutionary new outdoor industry model that centers around community, sustainability, and accessibility. Breaking down financial, space, and friendship barriers to the outdoors. Join the Adventure! Social Club Events From group ski outings and guided hikes to nightly workshops, yoga classes, and film screenings, Gearhouse is a one-of-a-kind outdoor Seattle social club that is your ticket to enjoying all the Pacific Northwest has to offer. We supply so much more than affordable access to the outdoors and the gear you need to enjoy it. We provide a community for our members to learn and thrive while falling in love with the outdoors. Join us for Third Thursdays! View Calendar Our Sustainability Goals We can’t enjoy the outdoors if we don’t strive to protect what’s in our backyard. Beyond our focus on increasing the accessibility and affordability of outdoor adventure, reducing carbon admission through carpooling, and decreasing waste by decreasing the amount of gear bought, Gearhouse gives back. We spend 1% of revenue removing CO2 from the atmosphere. More than just eliminating CO2, being an early price-insensitive customer helps new technologies get down the cost curve and scale up allowing for participation by more people. Learn more here .

  • Jobs | Gearhouse

    Jobs at Gearhouse Gearhouse is currently hiring for the positions listed below. If you don't see one that fits but you have have ideas on how you could help, send an email to evan@joingearhouse.com with a few details on what you're thinking! Open Positions Ski & Snowboard Technician

  • Climbing | Gearhouse

    CLIMBING What is Rock Climbing? Rock climbing is one of the world’s fastest-growing sports and outdoor activities. All over the world, new climbers are experiencing the rush and serenity of climbing both indoors and out. Rock climbing is the sport of climbing up or down vertical rock faces, usually with the aid of equipment. ​ Is Rock Climbing Safe? Rock climbing is a safe activity when done correctly and with proper equipment. At Gearhouse, safety is our top priority. We use high-quality gear that is inspected thoroughly after each use. And with many fellow climbers in the community, you will be able to meet new climbing partners. ​ You May Enjoy Rock Climbing if… You’re an avid hiker who enjoys scrambling, vertical ascents, and a physical challenge. ​ Types of Rock Climbing Bouldering Bouldering is the most bare-bones version of climbing. In bouldering, climbers don’t use ropes or harnesses. Instead, they ascend routes (called problems) over padded mats (called bouldering pads) with just their climbing shoes and a chalk bag. Bouldering typically involves a series of challenging moves that require a combination of strength, technique, and problem-solving skills. Boulder problems usually only take climbers to heights they can safely fall from, usually from 7 to 15 feet. Top Rope Climbing Top rope climbing is a widely popular form of climbing for both outdoor and indoor climbs. It’s also great for new climbers. In top rope climbing, the climber is belayed from a fixed anchor at the top of the wall. Top rope climbing requires a rope, helmets, a belay device, and harnesses for the belayer and climber. Belayers must know how to set an anchor, tie into a harness, and use a belay device. The beginning top-rope climber does not need to know as many technical skills if their belayer is experienced, which is why top rope climbing is great for new climbers. Sport Climbing For many climbers, sport climbing is the next progression after top rope climbing. Unlike top-rope climbing, which uses a fixed anchor at the top of the wall, sport climbing involves climbing from the ground and setting fixed protection as the climber ascends. The sport climber is tied into the rope through their harness and uses quickdraws (two carabiners connected by sturdy nylon runners) to clip into fixed bolts in the wall as they climb. Sport climbers are belayed like top rope climbers but are given more slack as they climb. Sport climbing belayers need to have experience and use extreme caution, as sport climbers can fall from greater distances than top rope climbers. Trad climbing Trad climbing is an advanced form of rock climbing where a climber places protection on or into the wall as they climb. Unlike in sport climbing, where the climber places protection using fixed bolts in the wall, trad climbing protection uses the rock’s natural features to place protection. The most essential part of trad climbing is understanding how to place the gear so that it holds in the case of a fall. Multi-Pitch Climbing In multi-pitch climbing, two climbers ascend a wall with several pitches and belay each other from anchored positions, ledges, and even from above, as they ascend. Multi-pitch climbing is a highly skilled version of rock climbing used to tackle especially large features. ​ Rock Climbing Season in Washington Washington, and the Pacific Northwest more broadly, is a mecca for rock climbers with some of the best rock climbing in the country. The climbing season in Washington typically runs from late spring through early fall, when the weather is mild and dry. During this time, you can expect clear skies and moderate temperatures, making for the perfect climbing conditions. How to Start Rock Climbing in Washington Getting into rock climbing can be intimidating, but Gearhouse is here to help. Our Intro to Rock Climbing program is designed for beginners who want to learn the basics of climbing in a safe and supportive environment. We offer equipment rentals, group outings, events at local climbing gyms, and more. Meet climbing buddies, get the gear you need, and adventure with Gearhouse. Gearhouse climbing trips are run by professional climbing guides also trained in wilderness first aid. Rock Climbing Gear In Rock climbing, having the right gear is paramount to your safety. If you’re heading out for a climb, research what gear you need. Gearhouse’s gear library includes top-of-the-line climbing shoes, bouldering pads, and helmets, so you can focus on enjoying your climb. Our experienced staff can help you select the right gear for your next climbing adventure. Upcoming Events

  • Kayaking | Gearhouse

    KAYAKING Intro to Kayaking Kayaking is one of the best ways to spend time outside in Washington. With approximately 28,000 miles of Coastline, Washington is a state best explored by water. There's plenty of opportunity for a paddle adventure, from Puget Sound to the Pacific Ocean and every river or lake in between. Washington is truly a paddler's paradise. What is Kayaking? Kayaking is paddling a low-to-the-water canoe-style boat from a seated position. Unlike canoeing, where paddlers sit on elevated platforms in the boat, kayakers sit inside the boat at or just below the water level. Kayakers also use two-sided paddles to paddle. Is Kayaking Safe? Recreating in the water is always a risk, but kayaking, when done correctly and with the proper safety equipment, is safe. Safety is our top priority at Gearhouse. You May Enjoy Kayaking if… You love spending time outdoors, being on the water, and trying new things. Kayaking is a great way to explore nature and get some exercise. Types of Kayaking Lake Kayaking Lake kayaking is all about leisure and exploring. Lake kayakers use recreational kayaks or ocean kayaks to paddle calm water. Ocean / Sea Kayaking Ocean / sea kayaks are slightly longer and narrower than recreational kayaks. The trim shape allows ocean kayaks to travel faster on the water, which is important as sea kayakers often travel farther distances. Ocean kayaking typically requires more advanced paddling skills, as it can involve navigating through waves and currents and requires more advanced paddling skills. Luckily Gearhouse offers courses in Sea Kayaking to learn the basics with skilled instructors. White Water Kayaking Whitewater kayaks are short, stubby kayaks used to navigate rapids in rushing mountain rivers. Whitewater kayakers descend whitewater rapids of all classes and even waterfalls. White Water Kayaking requires high levels of physical fitness and advanced paddling skills. Kayaking Season in Washington Washington has it all when it comes to paddling, from rushing mountain rivers to calm lakes, Puget Sound, and the Pacific Ocean. It’s possible to Kayak year-round in Washington, but the typical kayaking season runs from late spring (May) through the summer (June - August) into early fall (September) when the weather is mild, and the water is at its warmest. How to Start Kayaking Getting started kayaking in Washington is easy, you just need the right equipment and a bit of beta on where and when to go. Gearhouse has everything you need to start your paddling journey, like Oru folding kayaks. Always pay attention to the weather and tide conditions when planning your kayaking trip. Gearhouse's trip planning department is a great resource for new paddlers. Kayaking Gear Kayakers need three essential pieces of gear: a kayak, a paddle, and a US Coast Guard Certified personal flotation device (PFD). Head to Gearhouse to pick up all the kayaking essentials before your next paddle adventure. In addition to kayaks, paddles, and PFDs, Gearhouse’s gear library carries coolers, camping gear, dry bags, and other essentials you may want for your next kayak camping trip. Upcoming Events

  • Outdoor Gear Inventory | Gearhouse

    Outdoor Rental Gear Members Only Gear Library Guest Gear Rental No matter what adventure you are planning, we’ve got the gear you need. With hundreds of unique, premium outdoor gear pieces, we have the best rental selection around. Let us help optimize your next adventure with premium outdoor gear rentals. Our Gearhouse Members have access to discounted or free gear rental, customized to your trip, for up to 6 days at a time! ​ Not a member? No problem, we rent gear a la carte or customized to your trip too! Outdoor Gear Rental FAQS ​ Can I only take the gear I need?​ Yes! You can pick and choose what you want to take from just one thing to an entire set. What models and brands do you carry? We have too much inventory to list all our models and brands of gear so the best way to find out is to stop by or give us a call. Unlike normal rental fleets, we only carry top-quality stuff. For example, our current backpacking inventory includes packs from Osprey, Arc'teryx, Gossamer Gear, and Gregory. We carry many styles, brands, and models within a specific gear category to make sure we have the gear to suit every need and common preference (i.e., we carry trekking poles with both cork and foam grips, mummy sleeping bags as well as quilts).

  • Wilderness Medicine | Gearhouse

    WILDERNESS MEDICINE Overview: What are Wilderness Medicine courses? Wilderness Medicine courses use hands-on scenarios, interactive activities, real-world examples, and experienced instructors to prepare participants to assess, treat, and prevent common outdoor injuries and illnesses. The courses are divided into both Wilderness First Aid (WFA) and Wilderness First Responder (WFR) options. ​ Wilderness First Aid (WFA) ​ WFA courses are designed for all experience levels and are a good introductory-level fit for those who recreate in outdoor spaces where EMS response can be expected in a timely manner or for those who work at wilderness camps. ​ Delivered in a hybrid format, participants of this course can expect 4-8 hours of self-paced, online instruction, followed by a practical hands-on training component at Gearhouse, and a final assessment. ​ Wilderness First Responder (WFR) WFR courses teach participants how to provide emergency care and make crucial evacuation decisions in the wilderness. These wilderness medicine courses are a good fit for those who work or recreate in outdoor spaces where access to medical care is delayed, or communication is unreliable. Wilderness First Aid courses prepare students for the unexpected in a fun, hands-on way. They are the industry standard for professional guides, trip leaders, search and rescue team members, and outdoor recreationists. Delivered in a hybrid format, participants of this course can expect 40 hours of self-paced, online instruction, followed by a practical hands-on training component at Gearhouse, and a final assessment. Deciding between Wilderness First Aid vs Wilderness First Responder? Wilderness First Aid courses provide the skills to treat basic injuries and to assess more serious injuries, while Wilderness First Responder courses provide the ability to mitigate more serious injuries and evacuation decisions in wilderness environments. Wilderness First Responder (WFR) training is a great choice for those that can spare the cost and time. We have designed our WFR offering and ensure that our courses are significantly cheaper and more convenient than other offerings by pricing them at $375 for members (normally $1000 and often far away) and by splitting them across two weekends. It's also common for people to take WFA one year and then WFR the next. Both courses will leave you better prepared and safer in the outdoors. Wilderness First Aid This Wilderness First Aid (WFA) certification course is delivered in a hybrid format, with 4-8 hours of self-paced, online instruction, a practical hands-on training component at Gearhouse, and a final assessment. Wilderness First Aid (WFA) is the assessment of, and basic treatment given to an ill or injured person in an area where advanced help and access to definitive care is not easily accessible. ​ A Wilderness First Aid (WFA) course is recommended for: ​ Non-medical recreational users in outdoor areas where advanced help, evacuation, and access to definitive care is generally available.​ Wilderness First Aid Course Details Objectives Upon completion of a Wilderness First Aid course, an individual is expected to: Be able to complete a patient assessment to identify potentially life-threatening problems. (Apply) Complete the necessary first aid and non-invasive interventions to prevent medical problems and injuries from occurring or progressing. (Apply) Identify the need for additional resources and higher-level care for patients with life-threatening problems. (Analyze) Identify the need for and urgency of evacuation for ill or injured patients. (Analyze) WFA Course Part One: Online Learning (4-8 hours) Once you sign up, you can get started right away. All lectures are video-based, and the course can be taken at your own pace as long as you finish by the deadline. Review as many times as necessary. WFA Course Part Two: Hands-On Practical Training (1 day) The practical training focuses on the hands-on skills necessary to practice first aid in the field. We'll do simulations of injuries and practice wound care in realistic scenarios with you and your classmates. WFA Sign Up Upcoming Events Cost Comparis on Average cost of WFA courses in Seattle region: $250-$350 Gearhouse Non-member: $220 Gearhouse Member: $125 Wilderness First Responder A Wilderness First Responder (WFR) is a medical responder trained to provide initial patient assessment and management, risk-benefit analysis, and evacuation decision-making in an area where organized rescue and hospital care is delayed. The WFR has a limited advanced skillset to deal with specific, common issues in wilderness medicine. ​ A Wilderness First Responder course is recommended for: ​ Non-medical recreational users in outdoor areas where advanced help, evacuation, and access to definitive care is generally unavailable. A WFR's "scope of practice" is generally defined as whenever you are more than 1 hour from contact with trained emergency personnel. Persons involved with organizations operating in remote environments. Outdoor professionals employed or volunteer, such as wilderness guides, outdoor instructors and educators, Search and Rescue members, Mountain Rescue members, ski patrol, medical personnel for adventure races/events, missionaries, and National Park Service members. Adventurers pursuing long trips into the backcountry or on overnight trips. Wilderness First Responder Course Details Objectives Upon completion of a Wilderness First Responder course, an individual is expected to: Assess a patient to identify potentially life-threatening problems. (Evaluate) Complete the necessary non-invasive first aid and basic life support interventions to prevent medical problems and injuries from occurring or progressing. (Apply) Manage a patient in a remote setting for an extended time (more than 4 hours) while mitigating environmental and terrain risks. (Analyze) Coordinate patient care as the lead medical provider in the absence of higher-level care providers. (Create) Determine the need for additional resources and higher-level care for patients with life-threatening problems. (Evaluate) Determine the need for and urgency of evacuation for ill or injured patients. (Evaluate) WFR Course Part One: Self-paced Online Learning(40 hours) Once you sign up, you can get started right away. All lectures are video-based, and the course can be taken at your own pace as long as you finish by the deadline. Review as many times as necessary. WFR Course Part Two: 2 Weekend days at Gearhouse Topics include Basic Life Support, CPR, Patient Assessment, Emergency Simulations WFR Course Part Three: 3 Consecutive days (Fri/Sat/Sun) at Gearhouse Topics include Evacuation Techniques, Wound Care, Simulations, and Final Group Simulation ​ WFR Sign Up Upcoming Events Cost Comparis on Gearhouse Course Cost with membership: $375 (CPR/AED certification included) Gearhouse Course Cost w/o membership: $700 Typical Course Cost: $800 - $1000 ​ Can't commit to 5 days? Try out WFA . WFA Sign Up WFR Sign Up Overview WFA Details WFR Details

  • Activities | Gearhouse

    Activities Summer & Fall Gearhouse supports mountaineering, backpacking, paddle sports and more! Mountaineering Trail Running Wilderness First Aid Backpacking Camping Foraging Hiking Climbing Mountain Biking Paddling (SUPs & Kayaks) Sailing Trail Running Winter & Spring Snowshoeing Cross-Country Skiing Resort Skiing Resort Snowboarding Backcountry Skiing Backcountry Snowboarding Winter Hiking

  • Welcome to Basecamp Cafe | Gearhouse

    Thank you for visiting Basecamp Cafe! Need more coffee and don't want to wait in line? Order for Here or Togo

  • Member Gear Library | Gearhouse

    Outdoor Rental Gear Members Only Gear Library Guest Gear Rental No matter what adventure you are planning, we’ve got the gear you need. With hundreds of unique, premium outdoor gear pieces, we have the best rental selection around. Let us help optimize your next adventure with premium outdoor gear rentals. Our Gearhouse Members have access to discounted or free gear rental, customized to your trip, for up to 6 days at a time! Not a member? No problem, we rent gear a la carte or customized to your trip too! Outdoor Gear Rental FAQS ​ Can I only take the gear I need?​ Yes! You can pick and choose what you want to take from just one thing to an entire set. What models and brands do you carry? We have too much inventory to list all our models and brands of gear so the best way to find out is to stop by or give us a call. Unlike normal rental fleets, we only carry top-quality stuff. For example, our current backpacking inventory includes packs from Osprey, Arc'teryx, Gossamer Gear, and Gregory. We carry many styles, brands, and models within a specific gear category to make sure we have the gear to suit every need and common preference (i.e., we carry trekking poles with both cork and foam grips, mummy sleeping bags as well as quilts).

  • Resort 2 Backcountry | Gearhouse

    Resort to Backcountry Go from resort skiing to backcountry shredding and make touring pals along the way. Ready to try backcountry snow adventures but not sure where (or how) to start? We created Resort-to-Backcountry to introduce every level of snow-sport lover to the awesomeness of backcountry. ​ R2B is an incremental program design to be as low-commitment or as all-in as you want it to be. Progress as far as you feel comfortable or jump in at the level that suits your skills. And, yep — we’ve got all the gear you need! R2B Overview Let’s get you backcountry skiing and splitboarding safely and confidently. ​ Part 1: Backcountry curious? Part 2: Try a guided backcountry skiing or splitboarding day Part 3: Avalanche rescue basics Part 4: Go touring with friends! Part 5: Get avalanche trained: AIARE I Certification Part 6: Expand your horizons: AIARE 2 Certification Part 1: Intro to Backcountry Info Session Backcountry curious? Join a free evening class with other resort riders curious about heading into the backcountry. You'll learn more about the experience of backcountry, get hands-on with backcountry ski and splitboard set-ups, and play with the required avalanche safety gear. You'll leave knowing if backcountry is for you, and with next steps to get you out there. What you'll learn: ​ Discussion of what backcountry riding is and is not Instruction and assembling backcountry skis and splitboards Instruction of avalanche safety gear and practice with beacons Thorough Q&A of your burning questions Personalized advice on next steps to progress to backcountry skiing and riding Upcoming dates for R2B Part 1 Events Calendar Part 2: Guided Backcountry Day Ease into backcountry with professional guides for a first-timers' field day. ​ After a classroom session, this class will take you into the beautiful PNW backcountry to learn and put the basics of uphill travel into action. The terrain is chosen specifically for first timers in the backcountry and focuses on getting a feel for touring out of bounds through backcountry skill acquisition and practice. 5 students per instructor. ​ What you'll learn: ​ Putting on and using skins Efficient gear management Avalanche beacon safety check Basic movement skills on splitboard in uphill mode Uphill kick turns Fundamental movement skills for downhill riding (pole use, etc) Efficient and safe downhill movement in a backcountry setting Upcoming dates for R2B Part 2 Events Calendar Part 3: AIARE Avalanche Rescue Basics Learn what it takes to be a good touring partner! ​Head out on a field day for both backcountry newbies and more advanced riders — you'll learn the basics of companion rescue and expand you existing skill set with realistic scenario practice and new topics. During the course, you'll have the opportunity to receive professional coaching on your rescue skills. Receive a rescue certification card on completion! ​ What you'll learn: What you do if you or a member of your party is caught in an avalanche How to manage a multiple-beacon rescue Get comfortable with and be able to use avalanche rescue gear What it feels like to be in a rescue scenario and respond with focus and skill Real-time feedback from instructors and peers How to develop a plan for up-leveling your skills! Upcoming dates for R2B Part 3 Events Calendar Part 4: Go touring with friends Join a tour planning night with Gearhouse’s backcountry-experienced staff to get you ready for a backcountry trip with AIARE certified friends. Dates to be announced — starting in January! Sign up for the Gearhouse email list and be the first to know. ​ Get adventure in your inbox Ready to make new powder pals this winter? The Gearhouse Membership starts at just $30 a month and includes a built-in community of adventuresome Seattlies just like you. ​ Join the Gearhouse community Part 5: Get avalanche training (AIARE 1 certification) Ready for even more adventure? Get avalanche training and you’ll be ready to join tours with other AIARE-certified backcountry travelers. ​ This part of R2B includes: 5 hours of self-guided study 1 evening course (3 hours) 2 field days (8 hours each) ​ AIARE 1 is a 24-hour introduction to avalanche hazard management. You’ll gain strong foundational skills for preparing for and carrying out a backcountry trip, basic decision-making in the field, and rescue techniques required to find and dig up a buried person (if an avalanche occurs and someone in the party is caught). ​ What you'll learn: Safety topics including: Snowpack, avalanche phenomenon, terrain analysis, stability evaluation, avalanche hazard ratings, human factors & risk assessment, decision-making How to plan for travel in avalanche terrain Identification of avalanche terrain Effective use of The AIARE Risk Management Framework to make terrain choices in a group setting Effective companion rescue Upcoming dates for R2B Part 5 Events Calendar Part 6: Expand your horizons (AIARE 2 certification) Venture into even bigger terrain with AIARE 2. This advanced course will mentor you toward planning and carrying out your own backcountry tours. Deepen your snow terrain knowledge and learn to safely navigate advanced avalanche terrain. ​ This is an advanced course for experienced backcountry travelers with a few years under their belt. If you’re ready to safely navigate advanced avalanche terrain and get advanced tools to make sound decisions in terrain where avalanche problems exist. ​ You should have completed AIARE 1 (R2B Part 4) and Avalanche Rescue (R2B Part 3), plus have at least a year of backcountry travel experience. This part of R2B includes: 5 hours of self-guided study 1 1 evening course (3 hours) 2 field days (8 hours each) AIARE 2 is a course that provides backcountry travelers an opportunity to advance their decision making skills in more complicated situations such as being a leader within a small travel group, traveling in more complicated terrain, and/or developing a travel plan where resources are scarce. AIARE 2 builds on the introductory avalanche hazard management model introduced in the AIARE 1 and adds to it the evaluation of critical hazard assessment factors. Students will describe and discuss weather, snowpack and avalanche processes, and identify how these processes relate to observations and travel within avalanche terrain. ​ You’ll be guided by instructors who are former ski patrollers, active Pro Observers for NWAC, certified ski guides, and professional climbers and skiers that are excited to show you the ropes. ​ What you'll learn: ​ How to observe and record factors that affect or indicate snow stability Guidelines for weather, snowpack, & avalanche observation Propagation tests & test profiles Stability analysis & forecasting Avalanche terrain recognition, slab mechanics, & skier triggering concepts Complex terrain travel techniques, route selection, & decision making Events Calendar FAQs 1. Do I need to be an expert rider to go backcountry touring? 2. I have some backcountry experience. What part of R2B should I start with? 3. I’m interested, but I’m not sure backcountry is right for me. 4. How much does it cost? 5. Is gear included? 6. What’s The Mountain Bureau? Why am signing up for event registration on The Mountain Bureau website? 7. Do I have to be a Gearhouse member? What’s included in membership? Still have questions? Shoot us an email at ask@joingearhouse.com . We’d love to chat.

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  • Mountaineering | Gearhouse

    MOUNTAINEERING What is mountaineering? Rocky, jagged peaks. Snow covered mountain tops. Climbing on glaciers and reaching new summits. Reflecting on the adventure of getting up there. That’s mountaineering.​ Scrambling vs. Mountaineering Scrambling is hiking, but taken up a notch. It’s climbing over rocky, steep, rough terrain. It’s relying on your hands almost as much as your lower body to navigate a path. It’s taking your time to forge a path in sometimes unmarked terrain. Scrambling doesn’t really require any specialized gear. All you really need are some navigational skills and a hunger for hard work. ​ Mountaineering is all about the summit. It’s crossing crevasses, navigating glaciers, scrambling rocky terrain, and lots and lots of hard, physical work. Unlike scrambling, mountaineering requires technical gear and a solid understanding of how to use it. Climbing mountains is no easy feat, which makes reaching the summit that much more rewarding. Who can do it? If you’re a climber or hiker ready to forge ahead and (literally) reach new heights, you’re ready to start scrambling now. If you’re an experienced hiker and are setting your sights on summiting some mountains, you’re ready to start your mountaineering journey. Both scrambling and mountaineering are very physically challenging. In order to be safe and have a good time, you need to make sure your body is ready for the work to come. If you’re looking for a benchmark for your current physical fitness, take a hike up Mt. Si carrying 20% of your weight in a daypack. If you can make it within 2.5 hours with few rest breaks and without being exhausted, you’re ready for scrambling. If not, you’ve got a good goal to work towards. How do I get started? Ready to start your scrambling or mountaineering adventure? We’ve planned a skills progression course to get you out there summiting mountains by summer. Join us for all of our events, or just some. It’s up to you how you want to adventure. Weekly Conditioning Hikes Good for: Getting in shape for longer, harder, more demanding summits in Summer. Come hike with us Tuesdays nights to get in shape for your summer adventures. We’ll hike to some of the high points in the I-90 corridor for a workout to help you reach your scrambling and mountaineering goals. Interested? Check out our calendar. Crevasse Rescue Course with Cascade Mountain Ascents Good for: Getting hands on practice with glacier traveling and rescue Crevasse rescue is a necessary skill for glacier travel at any level. Get your glacier climbing career started right with a comprehensive crevasse rescue course. Our two-day program efficiently teaches the necessary skills for dealing with various crevasse fall scenarios, without rushing through practice of these important tools. This is a two day course with multiple dates. Sign up for April 20-21, 2024 Sign up for May 4-5, 2024 Intro to Mountaineering Clinic with Mountain Bureau Good for: Learning to travel safely over snow, using mountaineering gear, and basic mountaineering skills ​ This clinic is designed to introduce aspiring scramblers and mountaineers to the exciting world of Washington’s snow covered peaks. This program will give you the knowledge and techniques to ascend some of the PNW’s moderate summits. ​ Come join the clinic! Gear you’ll need Scrambling Gear The beauty of scrambling is that, at it’s core, it’s just a vigorous hike with a summit as the destination. Besides boots, a daypack, and the 10 essentials, there’s not much gear you’ll need on most scrambles. (Double check the trail reports. In some situations, specialty gear like crampons, ice axes or helmets might be necessary) Mountaineering Packing List Mountaineering takes special gear (as well as the skills to use them properly). Depending on the route, you might need to pack: 10 essentials Helmet Ice Axe Crampons Sunnies and Sunscreen Backpacking gear Meals and extra snacks Need to rent gear? We’ve got you covered. Our gear is top-of-the-line so you stay safe and have fun while you’re out adventuring. Not sure what you’ll need? Visit our gear counter to chat with our friendly and knowledgeable staff. Ice Axe Ice axes are used for safely navigating glaciers and icy terrain. Check availability Crampons Having traction is crucial on uneven and slippery terrain. Check availability Ultralight Camping Gear Sleep and cook food with lightweight equipment provided by Gearhouse. Check availability Hone your Craft - Skills Progression We’re so stoked to help you along your scrambling/mountaineering journey. We’ve created quite a few events to help you hone your skills and go from beginner to expert. You can see all upcoming events on our Gearhouse events calendar (pro-tip: filter by “Mountaineering/Scrambling” to find these events easily). Keep an eye out later in the season for more advanced events and adventures. Wondering what kind of events you’re ready to join? Check out our list below. Remember to start with a skills check. If you can reach the top of Mt. Si in 2.5 hours without being exhausted, you’re ready to start your journey! ​ Beginner You're an avid hiker or backpacker but are looking to go higher and harder. Join our weekly after-work conditioning hikes in the I-90 corridor to get your legs ready for steeper and more challenging days ​ Intermediate You’ve taken our Intro to Mountaineering skills clinic, your legs can get you atop Mt. Si comfortably. Now you're ready to come on our easy scramble days offered in May, June, July, August, and September. Advanced You're feeling strong. You've been joining our easy scramble days. You're comfortable with long days, off-trail travel, route finding, and “scrambling” over 2nd & 3rd class terrain. Join our “hard” scramble days, May-September Let's go on an adventure!

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