Mt. Rainier in March

“Fellow TTers - I'm heading out to Mt Rainier in March for an 8 day mountaineering trip and summit. I don't have any particular questions, but if there's any 'sage' advice out there, please let me know. Any tips, gear suggestions/experiences, pre-trip preparation advice would be very appreciated.

Thanks!”

“Never tried it in winter conditions. Yowza! Which route?”

“Not completely sure, Emmons maybe? It's a guided climb with Alpine Ascents - they've given me plenty of info and recommendations, just figured I'd see if anyone here had any additional advice to provide. I'm really looking forward to it...should be a great way to learn from experienced mountaineers.”

“are you fully equipped? I've done Rainier in summer, but in winter are there routes with less avalanche danger? I think of that region below Dissapointment cleaver and it seems like a great avalanche bowl.

”

“I've got about 75% of the equipment - I'm building it up and still have some time. From what I hear there are possitives and negatives to winter and summer climbs. It's the last week of March with a reputable guide service - so I'm fairly comfortable with it. I haven't purchased double plastic boots yet, any truth to the fact that you can't really break them in so renting is a decent option for your first climb? I can afford it, just wondering if renting is a decent option. Any other suggestions?”