Hi, I am planning a climb of Whitney and Muir for Feb. 18-20 and have just a few questions.
One, I know this winter has been one of the driest ever. This being said, is the Whitney Portal road covered with snow? I know a sign says it's closed but if it isn't snow covered I plan to drive it.
Two, we will be ascending the Mountaineers route starting from where we park Saturday the 18th and just wanted to get some insight on which is safer/better above the notch this time of year: The traverse to the west option or heading directly up the slope to the south. We will be having all climbing gear including ropes, screws, pickets, axes, crampons etc.
Third, on the approach, are the ledges extremely narrow to the point that would require protection from any ice? Or are they 10+ feet wide?
Also, will snowshoes be needed on the approach or is there not enough snow? Our plan is to get to Iceberg Lake the first day, climb Whitney and traverse to Muir and back to Iceberg Lake the second and return the third. Possibly climb Manly Bacon on our way back to Colorado.
As long as a giant storm doesn't roll in within the next couple weeks we are a go. If someone could help out with my questions based on current conditions that would be greatly appreciated.
