Does anyone know main trail conditions above trail camp? Our original plan was to take the main trail to trail camp then summit the next day via the main trail. I am realizing now with two weeks left it is likely not passable and if it is, it would be a sufferfest.
Many here are advising to take the west chute. I have only been on Whitney in snow free conditions. Forgive the gumby question but where and how would I locate the west chute from the main trail? Is it obvious when near the switchbacks past trail camp? How do I access this from the main trail? or must you be on the MR to access the chute?
Also, how many more chutes (if any) will lead to the summit or does it meet up with the main trail at the crest?
Is the west chute something to be undertaken only by experienced mountaineers? I have summited angels landing, Zion in the dead of winter under 3 ft of snow when the chains were iced in crampons and have hiked, climbed most everywhere in the states including Alaska. I am not familiar with steep chutes however. I know how to use an axe, crampons, snow shoes, etc. Any help would be appreciated.
