Actually, Steve, somebody did climb the main trail in January 2011. Remember
this TR?
raflymtsu: That TR may make it seem easier than it is. I'm no world-class climber, but I've been doing this for 25 years. I also had perfect weather, not too much snow, and I had already climbed Whitney many times.
The MR is a shorter route, but the final 400' can be pretty challenging with snow and ice on it. I did it unroped last March (a dry year), and it required all the skill I could muster.
I would go with a guide. You will learn a lot, you will be safe, and your chances of making the summit will be much greater.
