MOUNT RAINIER

UNITED STATES / 4392m

Rainier is a volcano that overlooks Seattle, Washington with deceptive benevolence: this serene-looking snowcapped peak is considered one of the most dangerous volcanoes in the world, given that close to 4 million people live in its shadow. Inhabiting the same volcanic chain as Mt St Helens, an eruption would be explosive and the effects far-reaching – so there’s an argument for climbing it while it’s quiet. The rewards equate to a

wilderness experience like no other.

Despite being close to metropolitan centres, the ascent of Rainier requires a traverse of the largest North American glacier outside Alaska, through dramatic volcanic spires and the turbulent weather systems of the American north-west. The skill level is comparable to that of Mont Blanc, though with added altitude and more serious terrain. It is possible to climb the mountain without a guide, but you need to have the skills to do so.