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Whitney in Early/Mid May

Posted: Sun Apr 01, 2012 9:41 am
by Smnold
How far up this trail will I be able to go in early May? Any educated guesses? I'm not planning to bring snow shoes or crimpons.

Thanks

Re: Whitney in Early/Mid May

Posted: Sun Apr 01, 2012 7:11 pm
by jessegooddog
I never hike in the sierra without microspikes - it only takes one icy patch to do you in. Even this year. I keep them clipped outside my pack, they are easy to slip on and off.

Re: Whitney in Early/Mid May

Posted: Sun Apr 01, 2012 9:50 pm
by RoguePhotonic
It's always impossible to tell for sure. How far you can go depends on your skills most of the time.

You'll have to keep an eye on conditions and trip reports as the date gets closer.

Re: Whitney in Early/Mid May

Posted: Mon Apr 02, 2012 9:11 am
by Wild Bill
You should be able to make it to Trail Camp (12,000') without any "snow equipment." Nothing technical or steep to that point. You will encounter snow along the way, however.

The trail will be covered in snow above that to Trail Crest. As others have mentioned, you need the proper equipment to go higher. It is a pretty steep slope. I did it (that time of year) with an ice axe, kicking steps in the snow straight up. The snow was "cooperative" for me.

Once at the pass, the trail was visible the rest of the way to the summit. Assuming the summit is the goal.

Re: Whitney in Early/Mid May

Posted: Mon Apr 02, 2012 11:04 pm
by paul
Here's where to find out:

http://whitneyportalstore.com/forum/ubb ... d=1&page=1" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;