Mt Whitney Zone Forums Trip Reports Main Mt. Whitney trail conditions, 2009-11-21

Bob R and JayD reported on wpsmb that the MMWT (Main Mt Whitney Tail) is icier than usual this time of year. Ice axe and crampons, and experience/training using them are required to hike the trail now.

Although there is not much snow, what is there has been through some extended thaw freeze cycles, so the surface is slick in many places.

Jay's trip report photos are particularly worthwhile viewing, since he has added captions to every one. His pics are here.

Bob R's report is here.

Here's Jay's picture of the trail at the cables, Consultation Lake below.

Those are great pictures and I really appreciate the notes on each one.
I really want to learn about the shortcuts. I wasn't aware of the one from LPL area to Bighorn Meadow. I have heard of the one from LPL to the Portal and the shortcut at Trailside Meadows up to Trail Camp when there is enough snow.