#111 Climbing Mount Baker — Step-By-Step

 Join coaches Leif Whittaker and Larry Goldie as they provide a comprehensive guide for climbing Mount Baker, covering preparation, gear, and strategies for a typical 3-day guided ascent. Leif and Larry discuss essential equipment, packing tips, camping techniques, and nutrition strategies for mountaineering, as well as the importance of proper training and pacing during the climb. They also offer insights into the daily expectations of the climb, including the approach hike, glacier skills training, and the challenges of summit day, emphasizing safety and environmental considerations throughout the journey. To submit your own training questions, or if would like to learn more about the Evoke Endurance community, contact us here. Episode Guide 00:00:00 Introduction 00:01:39 What makes Baker unique and special 00:03:46 Step 1: Gear check 00:06:11 Essential and under-rated gear for climbing Baker 00:14:55 Practical pack-loading tips 00:19:18 Step 2: Approaching your chosen route 00:22:39 Using trekking poles and approach shoes 00:25:25 Staying below aerobic threshold  00:28:05 Step 3: Arriving at high-camp 00:30:00 First night at high-camp and securing your gear 00:36:41 Carry extra fuel to melt snow 00:37:49 Go-to back-country meals and snacks 00:45:24 Step 4: glacier skills 00:47:37 Efficiency of movement 00:50:54 Other important skills 00:54:47 The night before a summit bid and the alpine start 01:00:24 Step 5: summit day 01:00:59 Quick fuels for summit day 01:03:34 Applying warm layers and sunscreen during rest periods 01:06:09 Final push up the Roman Headwall 01:07:18 The summit is the half-way point 01:09:31 Descending safely 01:11:27 Step 6: Back to camp, and down to the trail-head 01:16:18 Training considerations for Baker 01:23:39 Go into the trip well rested 01:25:24 Where to learn more