[pct-l] Hood and Rainier on a Thru-hike

[Samuel Ward]

How feasible is a Hood or Rainier side trip while doing a PCT thru-hike?
I'm less interested in the gear requirements and more in the logistics of
how someone made it work while on a thru hike.

Can Hood be done in a day?  Timberline lodge seems like a good staging area,
you're already halfway up.  What are some good resources for maps or trail
descriptions?

Do you have to have a guide for Rainier?  Are there cheaper alternatives?
Is it reasonable to assume its a 4-7 day detour from the PCT?  Where is the
best access?  It looks like for at least Rainier there are some outfitters
or guide services that will let you rent any gear you're not already
carrying.

I'm from the east coast so 1) I dont know anyone personally who has hiked
either of these and 2) I would like to make the most out of my time out
west.  Potentially grabbing the high point in all three PCT states is very
enticing.  If you've had personal experience with hiking these I'd love to
hear how it worked out.  Thanks.

Sam