Mt Whitney Zone Forums General Discussion May 9,10 2023 Trip

I would leave the snowshoes unless you get a specific prediction for new snow, possible but unlikely in May. Also i notes you wrote "ice axes" plural. One per person I believe is the norm: no ice climbing involved. Also no front points on the spikes, and get advice on hiking vs climbing crampons.

It is a long haul from Outpost to the summit over snow, so you may want to consider adding a day and a camp at Trail Camp. A late descent can be sporty, as snow that has softened early in the day will not be so friendly after the sun reaches a low angle or leaves it altogether, especially on the snowfield below Trail Crest.

Your route will be essentially the main trail. There are some common shortcuts over snow in winter, and if you have the experience they will be evident from examination of a map: notably sections where the trail leaves Lone Pine Creek between Outpost and Trail Camp, and straight up the snowfield to the northwest of the switchbacks above trail Camp. Research these well before committing to them, and especially beware two situations: 1. descending Lone Pine Creek to Outpost. As I recall there have been incidents of climbers missing it on the way down, and at least one death at the waterfall and 2, Getting off trail descending above Trailside Meadow. There have been several accidents descending on that section, especially late and in darkness, another reason to reconsider summiting from Outpost rather than Trail Camp.

Also things to know before you go: there have been wet avy conditions and events here in early spring, so get really good beta as the date approaches.