Taking my bro' up Whitney for the first time, but I've not done the MR this late in the season - usually always done it in the spring. I'm trying to get a sense if there's snow and ice enough to warrant crampons and an axe. We'll have all of this junk in the truck, but would rather not schlep it if not needed. He's a pretty good rock climber, but he is a bit nervous about snow and ice. Also, last time I was up there I was told about a vertical section of climbing that takes you to the summit, so you avoid the long traverse around to the backside of the mountain. Supposedly it's just before the traverse, once you top out of the chute. How tough is this? Would we need pro? Rock shoes? Or is it more of a scramble?
Any beta from ya'll September regulars would be appreciated.
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