Mt Whitney Zone Forums General Discussion Hiker stranded on top of whitney

My girl friend's brother has been reported missing today. He spent the night last night near the summit and was caught unprepared in the snow. Search and rescue have been unable to get a copter up there due to weather conditions. They did have a team on the ground go to the top where they last tracked his gps but he wasn't there. My question is there anyplace near the top that someone could seek shelter? I know it's above the tree line, and conditions can change rapidly. Just trying to give them a little hope until the morning when hopefully they can resume their search. Thanks for any input.

Crystal

There is a hut at the summit if he made it there and stayed inside, he would be all right. If he's out, he'll be lucky to survive. So sorry for the worry. I sure hope he makes it.

What kind of gps device did he carry?

He MADE IT! Search and Rescue just reached him! Another hiker found him yesterday and took him to the hut where they've been hunkered down!!! OMG! I am so happy to report good news -- and I am so incredibly happy for my friend, her family and her brother Duke!

This is such an important reminder to everyone (and I follow these words myself when I am out in the wilderness). Prepare for the worst - especially at the higher elevations. Snow or rain....can quickly wreck havoc without the proper gear and cause hypothermia fast.

Best of luck to all of you hikers out there --- I hope to one day join the 14,000' club too. Until then, I will live vicariously through all of you!!!

Blessings!
Crystal

Great news! Thanks for keeping us updated!

Crystal, so glad!

Thanks for the report.

Thank you so much!!! Me too!