1) The walk around is more difficult in my opinion regardless of the season. It just looks easier. See what the easy walk around can do:
http://www.whitneyzone.com/wz/ubbthreads.php/topics/22876/Re_April_6_8_know_how_to_self_#Post228762) I didn't bring rope, but I'm not the sharpest tool in the shed.
3) Going down the main "trail" just might be harder. Once you're on the summit, there might or might not be a trail. In January, there might not be anyone who goes up the main trail. If someone decides to break trail, their tracks may easily be covered by a storm. To get back down that way, you'll need to traverse 2.5 - 3 miles to get to Trail Crest. If it's not beaten in, which it probably won't be, you'll be in for a brutal trip. You'll still have to get down a steep slope from Trail Crest. While it not as steep as the MR, it's not a skip down either, and you'll be much more tired from traversing and probably post holing all the way.
4) Easy to follow? I can't answer that, it depends on you. I'd say it's easier than the main trail due to the needles almost always being in your face. If you have a GPX track, being it as a backup.
5) Bring your A game. This old TR and pictures should give you an idea of what you're up against:
http://s43.photobucket.com/albums/e378/l...mview=slideshowhttp://www.whitneyportalstore.com/forum/...e=0&fpart=1You've picked one of the toughest months to do a trip. Good luck!!! You'll need it.
