Hey guys, so we successfully summited yesterday (July 9th) and what an amazing feat it was!
1. The chute is definitely getting extremely slushy. We began the chute around 7am and even then we had to kick in almost every step even if it was defined.
2. Ice axe is highly, if not absolutely recommended. The switchbacks are probably 95% good to go right now, but the top is still iced out according to the rangers AND folks who took the switchbacks the entire way up.
3. Glissading down the chute is by far the absolute best, BUT PLEASE know how to glissade properly especially down the "super chute" that's just right off the crest trail. When you glissade down the super chute YOU WILL go extremely fast. Knowing how to properly slow yourself down or just self-arresting when you feel as if you're losing control WILL save your life. We saw a dude glissade down from the switchbacks with terrible technique to the point where I was worried he'd injure himself. He was jumping up while glissading, letting his legs fling everywhere, etc.
4. Do not underestimate the stream crossing, especially the second one from Whitney Portal, it's extremely deep right now. I recommend bringing actual water shoes.
I'm here to answer any more questions too!
