Mt. Whitney Portal Store & Hostel Forums General Mt. Whitney Portal Store Message Board Summit 9/10/08

Left Outpost at 3 a.m., arrived at the summit at 11 a.m. in a snow storm that began at approx. 9:30 a.m. and 1.5 miles from the summit. Was on the summit for 15-20 minutes and then headed down along with a few others. Snow lessened at trail crest and stopped entirely on the switchbacks. Arrived at Outpost at 5:00 p.m. in a very heavy downpour (Rain). Broke camp and left for Portal at 6:15 p.m. arriving at 9:30 p.m. Trail was flooded in spots and somewhat difficult to navigate, and was a challenge in the dark with headlamp. Quite a day. Enjoyed the challenge! Met some great people, especially the guys from Glendale and Hemet, CA. I will be back.

Donald - we were right behind you going to the summit. We got there about noon after leaving the Portal at 0300. The visability was pretty bad on top for about 15-20 minutes, but then let up. We had zero problems following the trail even with the minor flooding. Probably because I've made a few laps there before. We blew thru Outpost right around 5 pm and noted a couple tents that were partialy flattened from the wet weather. We were joking that they should break camp and head downhill for hot food and a warm bed. It was different, but not winter conditions. The only thing I would have done different was to bring my wind pants. My 99 cent poncho sheds water just above the knees and made for cold legs. My fanny pack was 9 pounds loaded with food, water and gear. At the end I was wearing everything I brought so I had "just enough". I was going to bring my trekking poles (I almost never do) but the strap on one broke in the parking lot. I'll probably sneak up at least once more this year - maybe twice. ...................................................DUG