Mt Whitney Zone Forums General Discussion Whitney Mountaineers Route: Easy Walk Off from the Notch

BFR: I will definitely alter the text in the first post in the thread with a warning about icy conditions. The death on May 6 underscores the danger. Thanks.

I agree with BFR. I’ve only used the “easy walk off” two or three times, and it’s always been worse than it looks. I’ve found deep, unconsolidated snow that could easily send you for a ride down the steep north face. The safest way up and down is usually the “final 400” chute or the rock on the west side of it.

For anyone interested, I was at the notch today and noticed that the walk off continues to be extremely
sketchy and snow covered. Wouldn't recommend it!

Here's a pic from 7/21:   http://i66.tinypic.com/1olpq9.jpg

Thanks, BFR. That spot is deadly when the temps are low enough that the snow is iced-up.

A hiker lost his life there this spring when he slipped and lost both ice axes.

When there is no snow, it's an "Easy Walk-Off". What a difference!!!