Mt Whitney Zone Forums Trip Reports Switchbacks report 7/6/11 in detailed pictures

Pictures of the switchbacks on 7/6/2011   Trip report is here:  Trip Report for 7/6/2011

Looking up to switchbacks/chute from base camp:






































Many people taking the chute:






Trickiest section crossing snow on the switchbacks. This was not the obvious path, but some guys who were ahead of us said they didn't see any other way. It was steep with combination of snow and rocks:


(Ditto):




Last section of snow at top of switchbacks. This is basically the top of the chute. It's quite steep but the existing post holes are helpful. Be careful:


Trail Crest / top of chute:

Great Pix...thanks for posting

Wow, that was fantastic. Great job. Warming up my micro-spikes for the 20th :-)

fantastic!

Yay thanks for the photos

Zzyzx Thanks for the great pics. Looks like the switchbacks are back and doable. A little dicey at the top just below Trail Crest. That is up to date fantastic photo Beta.I know everyone with a trip coming up is grateful for the excellent update on the SB's.

Great work! Thanks for the pics...feeling better about my overnighter on the 24th/25th!!

Jrod8
You should have clear trails with a few patches of snow here and there.Word is Switchbacks should really start melting out fast now Acclimating is you next big obstacle.Watch daily for trip reports and weather conditions.Weather can change on a dime in the Sierras so pay close attention to the weather as posted here and read DMatts forecats everyday the week before your trip.

Thanks for the pics - greatly appreciated! My permit is for July 18th...looks like the switchbacks will be in good shape by then.

Rod,

thanks...plan on acclimating at Onion Valley or Horseshoe Meadows two nights prior then the additional night at trail camp...so we should have 3 nights at elevation under our belts before the summit push...fingers crossed! First timer here that appreciates and welcomes all advice from those who have gone before.

Thanks for the trip report and great pics of the current situation! We are heading up on Sunday, july 17th. Going to do the switchbacks, not the chute as we have no experience with ice axe/crampons. Do you think we'll need gaiters or microspikes? Just trying to figure out what last minute gear i need...really don't want to spend the money if I don't have to. Thanks for your time.

Gaitors help with stuff falling in your shoes even if no snow. If you are an REI member you can buy the gear and return it is you dont use it. But ti could be good to have.