Whether a first-time climber, or a seasoned veteran, preparation for this the Mt. Rainier journey begins now. The actual climbing season begins around late May and runs through September.

Experts say it is only a matter of time until Mount Rainier, one of the most dangerous ... which then destabilizes loose dirt, rock and volcanic debris and causes it to flow rapidly downward.

Unlike traditional volcanic eruptions, lahars-fast-moving flows of water, volcanic debris, and rock-are the biggest risk posed by Mount Rainier. These powerful mudslides can occur even without an ...