There has been a
report of a hiker's death last week on the Mt Whitney trail. It would be helpful to all hikers to learn how to be more aware of the potential problems of hiking at altitude. Unfortunately, sometimes there is a reluctance to report anything.
Although I am not sure, I believe this situation involved a hiker with
HAPE or
HACE. We have heard from other hikers this season that conditions can continue to worsen even after descending to normal elevations. (
8/15/11 Trip Report & HAPE and
A case of HAPE) If people recognize hikers progressing into those conditions, getting off the mountain immediately may save the hiker's life.
If anyone has more details on this recent situation, it would sure be helpful.
