Here's your chance to rub elbows with some of the big names in Everest climbing: Viesturs, Hahn, and Whittaker (Lou AND Jim). The Rainier Mountain Festival takes place over the weekend of September 12 and 13 in Ashford, Wa, and features talks,slideshows and Q&A's with the aforementioned legends.

Visitors to the festival can also enjoy alpine games, a five-mile trail run, mountain technique demonstrations, a raffle to benefit MRNP, fund stuff for the kids, food and music.

For more information on this free event, visit www.rainierfestival.com.