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What COVID-19 policies do you have in place?
Mountain Madness has a detailed COVID-19 Operations Plan which will be shared prior to the trip. All participants must fill out a pre-trip COVID-19 questionnaire/agreement.
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Do I need any prior training to participate in this course?
As a summit to Mount Baker is a technical climb on glaciers, this course is intended for advanced-beginners. You don't need previous mountaineering experience but should be physically fit as the course is demanding. We recommend you have previous hiking and backpacking experience since you'll be overnighting outside.
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How physically fit do I have to be for this course?
This is a physically demanding course, and your ability to enjoy the adventure depends on your health and fitness, thus it’s recommended that you are in good physical condition. Your trip will be more rewarding if you prepare for it by conditioning properly well in advance. We believe that the best form of training is simulating the activity you are training for, and then increasing exertion as the routine becomes easier.
For example, walking up hills and stair climbing are excellent ways to condition your lower body, heart and lungs for climbing. Begin slowly, without the weight of a pack, and eventually add weight as you increase your training pace. Then begin taking longer hikes several times a week with a weighted pack. Use water containers for uphill hikes, then empty the contents for the descent to reduce knee stress. It is never a bad idea to supplement these workouts with running, swimming, bicycling, or other forms of aerobic activity as well as weight training.
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Who are the guides?
Mountain Madness guides are highly experienced instructors that have been trained by the Canadian Avalanche Association (CAA), the American Mountain Guides Association (AMGA), and the American Institute for Avalanche Research and Education (AIARE). They are the best, most highly trained instructors!
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What will the weather be like on my trip?
Like all large mountain ranges, the Cascades tend to generate and attract their own weather, making conditions impossible to predict. Typically July, August, and September have the best weather, but optimum or adverse weather can occur at any time. You should be prepared for a wide range of temperatures, from freezing nights and snowy and windy conditions, to bright sunshine intensified by high altitude. These wide fluctuations make it especially important to bring everything on the equipment list. Because our climbs and courses take place in the unpredictable mountain environment, your guides will make decisions regarding the trip itinerary based on current weather and route conditions. Mountain Madness guides will make every attempt to follow our trip itineraries, but the decision to amend an itinerary is always at the discretion of your guide. Summits are not guaranteed, and failure to summit is not sufficient cause for a refund.
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Are rentals available?
Yes, rental gear is available and can be rented directly through Mountain Madness. Please inquire for pricing.
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How heavy will my pack be?
You will be required to carry a portion of the group gear and food in addition to your personal gear. This should be taken into consideration when deciding what you will bring. A good rule of thumb is to try to keep your pack weight below 40 pounds, which will allow for adding the group equipment.
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Do I need to bring and prepare my own meals?
As part of any goal to become a self-sufficient mountaineer, being able to carry and prepare your own food in the backcountry is all part of the adventure. If you’d like any recommendations, please feel free to ask. In addition to meals, be sure to bring along your favorite munchies, energy food, and after dinner treats.
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What if I need to cancel?
evo will refer to the Mountain Madness cancellation policy. If you need to cancel your trip, please submit your notification in writing. Your trip will be cancelled from the date we receive written notice. You will be assessed a cancellation fee according to the following schedule:
More than 60 days from trip departure — $75 fee registration fee.
60 days or less from trip departure – 100% of trip cost
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What if I need to change the dates of my trip?
All date changes must be received in writing. There will be a fee of $100 for date changes. Any date change can be difficult and is subject to all additional incurred expenses as assessed by Mountain Madness. Changes will be made at the sole discretion of Mountain Madness and may not be possible. Date changes are for credit only (no refunds) and valid for one year from written change notification.
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I need accommodations in Seattle. Do you have recommendations?
Yes, there are plenty of options, depending on your preferences. Near Sea-Tac Airport: Cedarbrook Lodge (4-star), Double Tree Hotel Seatac (4-star), Hampton Inn Seatac (3-star), Hilton Garden Inn Seatac (3-star). Near Mountain Madness: Georgetown Inn (2.5 star), The Grove (2-star).
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When and how do I meet up with the group?
You will receive detailed instructions regarding when and how to meet the group from Mountain Madness.
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What is the maximum number of guests on the trip?
There is a maximum of 10 guests for this course. The guest:guide ratio is 5:1, with groups of 10 being split into 2 groups due to COVID.
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Is there a minimum age required for this trip?
We will accept participants 15 years or older, if they are accompanied by a legal guardian. You must be 18 years or older to attend a trip on your own.
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I need accommodations in Seattle. Do you have recommendations?
Yes, there are plenty of options, depending on your preferences. Near Sea-Tac Airport: Cedarbrook Lodge (4-star), Double Tree Hotel Seatac (4-star), Hampton Inn Seatac (3-star), Hilton Garden Inn Seatac (3-star).
Near Mountain Madness: Georgetown Inn (2.5 star), The Grove (2-star).