Mt Whitney Zone Forums General Discussion Mt Ritter info?

I'm heading to Ritter next week, SE glacier route. For those who've done that route, how strongly would you recommend a helmet? Hoping to leave it at home.

I would say anytime you need an ice ax for protection, you also need the helmet. Probably the better rule is, if you have to ask, you need it.

While I agree with you as a generality, it's not strictly true. I've read TRs that say that, depending on conditions, it may be possible to largely avoid snow travel on this route. My question is more about the relative rockfall hazard. And I'd like to hear it from someone who's actually been on that route.

The "Glacier route?". I was assuming snow or ice travel.

Unfortunately I have never climbed that route. I've climbed both Ritter and Banner, but from the north side, Lake Catherine.

I hope you can find some trip reports that might help.

Hey Jim,
In 2013 (July) a young man by the name of Matthew Greene, was last spoken to on July 17th. He was in Mammoth waiting for his car to be repaired, and while waiting was hiking in the area. It is believed that he would be hiking in the Banner/Ritter area on his last day but his exact destination is not really known. More information can be found at: https://www.facebook.com/notes/find-matthew-greene/details-of-matts-disappearance/523033734436824

Poster used in the search:



I think it is believed that he was wearing the blue hat shown in the poster.

While not likely you will happen upon him with the snow cover, it could happen. I know his family would like to get closure.

Also, I'm planning on a day hike up to 1000 island Lake on the 17th, and would love to know more about the tail conditions in the area. So, a trip report would be appreciated.

Thanks

John

Yes, Matt was wearing that OR blue hat.