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Tacoma Intermediate Qualifier

Field trip: Intermediate Alpine Climbing Program

Tacoma Intermediate Qualifier - Mount Si Main Trail

This conditioning qualifier ensures that you have the basic level of physical fitness required to successfully participate in the Intermediate Course.

Contacts

Scott Hollis
Scott Hollis
Primary Leader
  • Moderate/Strenuous
  • Challenging
  • Mileage: 8.0 mi
  • Elevation Gain: 3,150 ft

Trailhead 8 AM

The conditioning qualifier is intended to ensure that you have the basic level of physical fitness required to successfully participate in the Intermediate course.  The exercise will require you to exert yourself at a steady aerobic output for 3 1/2 hours, while climbing up and down Mt. Si in North Bend, WA. 

There is a total elevation gain of about 3,400ft spread over a trail length of approximately 4 miles (to the base of the "haystack").  Participants will target reaching the top from the parking lot in two hours or less (adjusted for trail and weather conditions) while carrying a pack weighing 35lbs.  Participants who cannot complete the exercise in this time period will not be allowed to proceed further in the course.

It is highly likely that the trail will be icy and snowy in its upper reaches, and crampons and ice axes are required equipment.  In addition, you should also bring a set of ski poles to help with balance (and this will also help increase your speed). Good winter boots with fully lugged soles (mountaineering boots) are also required.

Route/Place

Mount Si Main Trail

Roster
Required Equipment

Required Equipment

35 lb pack, 10 E's, and whatever other gear needed for the conditions that day.

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