Mt. Whitney Portal Store & Hostel Forums General Mt. Whitney Portal Store Message Board snow cover on main trail

Hi all! When does the main trail become free of snow on the switchbacks... I hiked the main trail mid-July last year and it was 100% clean (and last year was a very heavy snow year). Any ideas on this year? I am hiking the main trail the last week in June. I hope it is clear.

With the light snow pack, you should be fine by the last week of June. There will be many reports from late May to the time you leave. Just check back often around then to find out current conditions.

Bob R. posted this information in his Wotan's throne post

I will hazard a guess that, within the week, with care, the switchbacks will be straightforward for all. Nevertheless, crampons and ice ax should be carried for the icy sections of the trail. There will be a few stretches of snow to traverse for quite a few weeks, and I know some will be unnerved by them. But there should soon be nice trenches to walk in, and most people will feel fine. I’ll give another report in a few days.


This picture of the chute was taken from the summit of Wotan's Throne at 2:45.

http://www.flickr.com/photos/rockwellb/507780249/in/set-72157600238588075/