Yes. We have selected the gear required for your program with great care in the hope that we will be prepared for any weather conditions. Although it may seem odd to need so much clothing in the Summer, we experience Winter conditions in the mountains above treeline throughout the year. Bring everything to the start of your program. Your guide will let you know if there are specific items that you don't need to carry based on up-to-date information about conditions.
Yes. This is critical piece of gear that we use during virtually every break. It is also valuable in an emergency.
A hardshell blocks precipitation and wind, so you'd wear this during a snow storm. A softshell blocks wind but lets perspiration out, so you'd wear it on a clear but windy sunny morning, when you're moving fast. We can have both these conditions - and many others - during one climb in the alpine.
Yes, you need both. Please arrive at the trailhead or meet-location with everything on the gear list.
There are three good lodging options for Mount Hood climbers:
- The Timberline Lodge is the closest lodging to our Mountain Office. It also books up well in advance
- The Best Western in Government Camp has lots of great food variety
- There are many vacation rentals available in the town of Government Camp
If you have had a recent injury, illness, or surgery, or if you have a medical condition such as asthma or allergies to food or medications, you should consult with us as well as your physician before signing up for any trip. If there is any doubt as to your ability to participate in this activity, you should have a physical examination by a physician.
Certainly, any type of aerobic exercise will help for the hike to and from the cliffs. Strength exercises in the gym will help, as well as a steady stretching regime. Climbing at a gym will help your strength and body movement skills prior to your day on the rock. See our page on Fitness Requirements.
Most climbers don’t realize being hydrated is one of the most important things climbers can do to prepare. Concentrate on good hydration and good rest during the 2-3 days prior to your climb. By arriving well hydrated for your climbing day, you’ll have a much better time, and so will your muscles.
We strongly recommend that climbers who register for our programs obtain travel insurance to protect themselves financially in the case that there is a disruption, or the need to cancel at the last-minute. We will uphold our written policies in all cases.
Guests occasionally inquire about rescue insurance, especially for remote climbing areas and international programs. Rescue insurance is distinct from travel insurance, and it's important to understand the differences. If you are interested in rescue insurance you may want to check with the American Alpine Club and their Global Rescue Service.
Climbing and mountaineering involve inherent risks - many that we can manage to a degree - some that are beyond our control. At the start of your program you will be asked to sign an Acknowledgement of Risk form. We recommend that you take the time to read this form prior to arriving. We invite you to call our office in advance if you have any questions about this form. You will be given time to ask questions again when you meet your guide.
By signing, you assume responsibility for all the risks associated with this activity, and you acknowledge the hazards that are beyond our control. We do not assume liability for injuries or death. All participants are completely responsible for all medical and hospital costs associated with any injury, rescue or evacuation. You go at your own risk.
While it is not required, it is customary to tip your guide. Any amount you tip will be greatly appreciated by your guide - consider food service as a basis for comparison and find a percentage of the bill that you are comfortable with, based on the service.
We do not share any information that you provide us at any time for any reason, except within our organization as required to ensure that everyone involved has all the required medical and emergency contact information. Read the Privacy Policy.