Finally a little glimpse of winter, as we progress into another week , the snow play is going to be great! A little ice climbing on the Mountaineers route, and skiing on the main trail side.
Work tomorrow ski on Monday..
If you too are planning to head out, don't forget that the old sugar snow underneath never really set up and things could be more unstable with the new snow on top..
Whitney is a gentle Giant and a Serious Mountain.. So I HIGHLY recommend Avalanche beacons..
As we continue to climb year round on Mount Whitney, we find that for some reason people treat Whitney as a park. Meaning they do not carry Avalanche Beacons, shovels or Probes or survival gear for the worst case scenario, Why??
If you were climbing in the Winter with new snow anywhere else in the Sierra , Skis or not, would you just climb on as if there were no consequences??
We will continue to pack the trail for easier access, however if you are coming up in the winter to climb and ski or just climb, please be aware of the Mountains voice.. She can and will move you in places you have never been moved emotionally, Spiritually , and Physically.. Be prepared and at least give yourself the option to save your buddy if nature swoops in and tackles you..
Also one more important note.. If you are climbing with another person or persons, please DO NOT LEAVE THEM BEHIND.. no matter how slow they are!