Mt Whitney Zone Forums General Discussion Whitney first-timer 06/02 seeking some advice

Some questions I have.
•It seems like not many people are taking the switchbacks at this time. Should we do the switchbacks or hit the chute?

switchbacks are dangerous ice/rock compared to chute.

•If doing the chute, we need crampons and and axe?

Yes and you should know how to use them effectivley

•does anyone climb the chute with microspikes?

yes but not advisable. micro spikes are generally used for flat traverses when you don't want to take crampons on and off. ie., over flat rock and icy sections.

•If we take the chute up, and then we take it down. I keep reading glissade is not recommended for first-timers. Can you walk down the chute?

Yes you can walk down the chute. but not knowing snow (freeze thaw cycle) conditions the timing and the weather and stamina have contributed to bad outcomes.

•If we slide on our butts with an axe down a portion of it, don't you destroy your pants?

The more I analyze this question.......
"Knowledge is the accumulation of facts
Wisdom is correct application of those facts"

•My layering system, does not include any snow gear. well because I have none.(accept for snowboarding gloves) Do I need special pants for the chute?

slacks for work
jeans for da club
board shorts for the beach.....

don't mean to be trite. there's a lot to be learned from everyone posts!