Sounds like a great plan but here is some food for thought: you can actually link up the MR of Mt. Whitney and the East Ridge of Mt. Russell by doing them as a "loop" instead of going up and down the East Ridge. This way you get to see more in one trip. There are two options (the first one is much better IMO):
1) Climb the slopes from UBSL to East Ridge, summit Mt. Russell (the East Ridge is spectacular, way better than MR), descend via South face (there is a short steep class 3/4 section but it can be done even with an overnight pack. If you are OK with following the East Ridge without a rope, you will be fine down climbing the South Face ... or do a quick rap if the rope is avalable), hop over Whitney/Russell Col to Iceberg lake, up and down MR, and then back to your camp via normal route.
2) The same "loop" in opposite direction: MR first via standard route, back to Iceberg lake, then over Whitney/Russell Col, summit Russell via South face, down via East Ridge, and back to UBSL.
Both options can be done from UBSL camp in a day if you start early and move reasonably fast. Alternatively, you can bivy at Iceberg lake.
P.S.: Unlike MR, the East Ridge offers amazing views and pristine alpine granite with virtually no loose rock on the route proper, but lots of people bail approximately mid way up because of exposure.
Last edited by Anton; 05/07/19 11:32 AM.
