Hi everyone!
I’m new on this forum. I’ve reached Mt. Whitney summit 2017. Not sure if you remember but there was an El Niño the winter prior which makes it really difficult to summit that year. The zigzag trail was slippery so many folks had to use the direct route of the chute up the mountain. Many of us use an ice ax and crampons for the first time. Fast forward 2019, a bunch of us are planning to hike again but with less experienced hikers this time. With all the rain and hail going on in the Bay Area, I’m worried if the weather will be as difficult as it was in 2017. Any experienced hiker who can shed some wisdom here? Thank you!

Our group is trying to get permits for August, I'd love to know what everyone says.

August is definitely best for less experienced hikers! By then the snow and ice are gone.

Hello,
Jumping in this thread to ask the same thought instead of making a new post:

Trying to apply for the lottery but, as stated by OP, I am also concerned that the larger than average precipitation this season will extend the ice/snow pack past what the Whitney gov site says main trail normally snow free by July.

Steve, you mentioned Aug. as best for less experienced hikers, thank you.
I'm wondering if the switchbacks would be reasonably ice free, (not needing to use the chute route with crampons and ice axe) by 2nd week of July?

Thank you all in advance. Look fwd to being active in this great community.

(time window available for the group is mid July or end of June. Or split the group and try for Sept)

Snow pack is currently 150% of normal, and that was before today's storm. This year is similar so far, to 2017.

Looking at When will switchbacks be open, I'll predict the switchbacks will still have snowy sections mid-July this year.

The switchbacks should be open, and the snow will be hard-packed. Microspikes will be popular during that time.

Thank you. Microspikes and trek poles is what we are all comfortable in. Hoping that is the case and will apply for that.
Cheers