Hi,

I plan to do the main trail on June 6, 2014 for one day hike.

1. Would the trail still be covered in snow?

2. Would I still need to bring clampon or ice axe for the chut part or would things be pretty clear of ice by then since it has been a dry season?

I typically hike in my trail runner as it is comfortable to me, so I am concern about having to bring clampon, etc.

Last year was also a light snow year, and people were using the switchbacks the last week or so in May. There will still be lots of snow and maybe ice at the cables, but people usually get through that by being careful.

When you go, please report back on the conditions. That helps others who read here.

By the way, they are called crampons, not clampons. You probably wouldn't use them if you took them.

Since you are calling them clampons, I would suggest change either your date or take a basic snow skills course prior to it.

Sam- I congratulate you for coming to a source such as this website for information on your upcoming 'walk'. However; looking at the content of your other questions in your posts; my recommendation is to be a little more assertive than wbtravis's. I would modify your plans for a much later date- when the conditions are more 'newbee' forgiving.

Its apparent that you do not understand/appreciate the environment of Mt. Whitney that you wish to enter- altitude, snow/ice, loose rock, exposure. The odds of a less than positive result if you went in early June; are greatly stacked in the Mountain's favor.

Doing the walk when the trail conditions are more in line with trail runners and your previous experience; would lessen the challenges for the first walk. Altitude to most 1st timers is enough challenge- let alone adding technical equipment and traversing ice,snow,scree; on top of it- especially if you plan on doing this 'walk' solo.