Mt Whitney Zone Forums General Discussion Mt. Russell: Third Time is the Charm

I'm looking for a conditions update for Mt. Russell's E. Ridge.

I was turned back by snow two years ago, I was turned around by moving too slow last year (read more on my fiascoes here).

I'm fairly certain all will be well. I'm going light, I was atop Whitney three weeks ago. I got to trail crest six weeks ago. It's been an abysmal year for snow, I'm just asking to prevent any unforeseen issues. Any advice, prayers, etc will be accepted with much gratitude

I'm heading up this sat, starting at 2am, taking the Rockwell Variation from the MR.


Here's hoping that the 3rd time is the charm!

Good luck! Russell is still on my list (attempting to do all the 14ers this year). You don't by any chance have an extra permit, do you?

Goldscott, Russell as a day hike requires a Whitney Zone day use permit - same as people using the main trail on Whitney. You can get free walk-in permits the day before if there are any no-show. Those are made available at 2 PM.

Save the Johnnie Walker Green Label until after you've successfully finished the route. :-)

I would have joined you if you were heading up there later. In Yosemite for a week, the first week of August and was planning a more relaxing day jaunt before going home.

No scotch?! Rats....


Enjoy your Yosemite jaunt! You would have been welcomed!