Was on the mountain on the 24th. Made it to trail camp a bit late (noon). Tried to approach switchbacks but decided to turn back.
Chute was soft and although we did see some folks make it, most we talked to said they made it only a bit more than half way before turning back--snow very soft. One lady said that at one point on the chute she struck the snow with her ice axe and the entire area around her felt like it was going to come down (YIKES!). We also spoke to a group who scrambled the switchbacks then traversed to trail crest--only to find the trail crest too difficult because of snow. We did come across a pair of what looked like grizzled Whitney Vets who departed at 3am and made the summit. Said that the trail crest did have snow and a few parts where hairy. Said they would not bring novices up that day.
We have done both Half Dome and Grand Canyon rim-to-rim in one day. On the 24th the mountain completely kicked our butt. Physically and mentally--not being able to attempt a summit was very painful. It is impossible to compare these 3 hikes--especially if/when there is snow. One thing we underestimated was the track of the trail itself. There are a lot of rocks and boulders and while it is not technically a scramble, it is certainly not a smooth ascent. Thus, the way down is a pain and MUCH SLOWER than one might expect. Grand Canyon you can run to the river from either side. Half Dome you can run much of the trail back down as well. This is certainly not the case with Whitney.
As of the 24th there was quiet a bit snow left. I wouldn't bet on the switchbacks for another two weeks at least.
