Mt Whitney Zone Forums Trip Reports Mt. Whitney via the Main Trail, April 5th

Dayhiked the main trail on Saturday April 5th. Snow started around 11,300'. I decided to take the switchbacks up and the chute down. The switchbacks are passable, but are a pain, the chute is much nicer. The snow was firm and had a nice punchy crust. Three people decided to glissade and all three came away with injuries (separated shoulder, cartwheeling and smashing into rocks. The chute is double black diamond glissading, don't try it unless you really have some experience, it was too icy on Saturday to even think about).

First views


Alpine Glow


Switchbacks or chute?


Sierra Crest



Cables




Last switchback


Beautiful, but very cold (15 degrees)


Pretty Dry

Three injuries, is that all?

Calico: Thanks so much for the report and the pictures. They will help many people.

The glissading experience is telling. People will do foolish things. Glad they weren't hurt worse.

Thanks for the report. Wow, I thought last year there was hardly any snow this time of year...

Beautiful pics.

Are Crampons & Ice Axe necessary currently?

Another snow storm passed through after the above pictures.

If you are sure-footed and confident, maybe you could make it. But it would be risky. I would take them!