Mt. Whitney Portal Store & Hostel Forums General Mt. Whitney Portal Store Message Board one alternative MR route from the notch

Fellow Sierra stompers,

On the Mountaineer's Route, I've always taken the first chute on the left located mere feet beyond the notch, but in a few weeks I'll be going with a first-timer who may have "the willies" when looking *down* from the top.

In that event, is it OK to turn *left*, head on the flatter terrain in that direction, then make a U-turn and follow the contour line back to the notch? From the chute, how far would I go before turning?

Also, I've heard that going this way can be dangerous in icy conditions, but I assume that it would be OK in mid-September.

Thanks.

Bigfoot,

I've been up both ways. The west travese from the notch is more walking than climbing. In most years, even into late summer there is some snow to cross. The time we did it there were big boot tracks to step in to cross the snow. But one missed step, a slip and you're sliding down the north slope onto the rocky runout below.

Taking the first chute does entail a little climbing but its like a giant stairway made of big blocks with lots of secure resting ledges. As long as its not icy or filled with snow. It's a little of climbing but in my opinion, it's less exposed than the traverse and its a lot more fun.