Route: Rainier Infinity Loop (WA)

The Mt Rainier Infinity Loop is an unusual challenge dreamed up by iconic Washington climber Chad Kellogg, but which he was never able to complete due to his untimely passing. The essence of Chad and the Infinity Loop is captured beautifully in "To Infinity" by Dirtbag Diaries - a podcast responsible for inspiring almost every person on the record board below to attempt this effort - it should perhaps be considered essential listening for imparting on this FKT or challenge.

Almost every successful FKT you see below was honored with nomination to that year's FKT of the Year Celebration. The route has become common knowledge among FKT enthusiasts, mountaineers, and even in trail running circles. This has grown into an iconic route for the PNW. Thank you to Ras and Gavin for seeing Chad's original vision through.

Chad Kellogg's original 4 part concept is to:

1. Ascend Rainier and then descend by a different route approximately on the other side of the mountain.  For example, starting at Paradise, ascend Disappointment Cleaver and descend Emmons Glacier.
2. Run the Wonderland Trail back to the starting point.
3. Repeat the ascent & descent.
4. Run the Wonderland Trail the other direction back to the starting point.

It works out to 143 miles or so, with 44,000+ feet of elevation gain.

Red Tape Considerations:

Information on the cost and availability of climbing permits for Mount Rainier can be found on the Rainier National Park Website linked here.

If an individual hopes to attempt this record solo, a separate solo permit must be applied for here.

Climbing weather can be reviewed here 

One of the interesting conundrums of this route is balancing ideal conditions on the Wonderland Trail as well as on both the Disappointment Cleaver and Emmons routes of Mt. Rainier. - this can be accomplished by reading trip reports and calling in to the ranger station.

The Rainier Infinity Loop Challenge: 

Aside from FKT chasing, this effort was originally done with each of the 4 parts taking roughly a day, this itself is an audacious challenge for partners set out to complete to participate in this community. This sub-5 day - sub-120 hour - timeline feels like a meaningful challenge as a way to plan, execute, and experience this incredible mountain, allowing each part to be completed in daylight hours.

Rainier Infinity Loop in the News:

"Bringing a Vision to Life" by The Mountaineers on Gavin Woody and Ras Vaughan's establishment of the Rainier Infinity Loop

"To Infinity" by Dirtbag Diaries

All-Women's Team Completes Rainier Infinity Loop in Spokesman Journal

First All Women's Team - Kaytlyn Gerbin, Alex Borsuk - interview on Ginger Runner
Jason Antin on Rainier Infinity Loop
"Suffering and Serenity on the Rainier Infinity Loop" on Essential Strength Podcast

Further Research:

https://www.nps.gov/mora/planyourvisit/climbing.htm

https://www.mountain-forecast.com/peaks/Mount-Rainier/forecasts/4392