Little Tahoma/South Face
This route ascends a series of steps up the south face with several sections of rock and steep snow/ice. Grade II, several pitches of low 5 class rock, ice/snow up to 45 degrees. Times: 1-2 days, 4-6 hours from high camp, 2-3 hours for decent.
getting there
From SR 7 in Elbe, turn east onto SR 706, both known as the National Park Highway. Continue through the Nisqually Entrance of Mount Rainier National Park. Be prepared to pay the fee just after entering the park. Drive 19 miles to Paradise.
In winter, ALL drivers in the park are required to carry snow chains or equivalent traction devices—this includes those with a 4-wheel or all-wheel drive vehicle. Those without a 4-wheel or all-wheel drive vehicle may be required to install them at Longmire or beyond.
approach
Ascend toward Camp Muir. At 8,600 ft, traverse northeast crossing the Paradise, Cowlitz and Ingraham Glaciers to the base of Little Tahoma's South Face (8,900 ft).
ascent
Climb snow fields, water ice, Class 4, and low Class 5 rock to the summit (11,138 ft).
descent
Descend the East Shoulder route to 8,800 ft. Travers south to the Ingraham Glacier and retrace the climbing route.
equipment
Standard glacier gear.
- Suitable Activities: Climbing
- Climbing Category: Intermediate Alpine
- Seasons: January, February, March, April, May, June
- Weather: View weather forecast. View avalanche forecast.
- Difficulty: Intermediate Mountaineering Climb
- Length: 14.0 mi
- Elevation Gain: 6,000 ft
- 11,138 ft
- Land Manager: Mount Rainier National Park
- Parking Permit Required: National Park Entrance Fee
- Recommended Party Size: 12
- Maximum Party Size: 12
- Green Trails Mt Rainier East No. 270
- Green Trails Mount Rainier Wonderland No. 269SX
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