Mount Whitney - Mountaineers Route

Type: Backcountry or Sidecountry

The Mountaineers Couloir is the distinctive line on the right side of the peak that is clearly visible from Lone Pine and looks impossibly steep from afar.

Skiing typically starts from the Notch at 14,150ft. The couloir is steep, and the main challenge can be the many track ripples of climbers. From Iceberg Lake to below Lower Boy Scout Lake, the terrain is moderate and very enjoyable. There are two sections that can require ascending.

With sufficient snow, it is possible to avoid the long flat traverse at 12,200-12,300 ft elevation with a short ascent from the Iceberg Lake bowl east before dropping to the traverse. This short section is steep and only recommended when scoped on the ascent for sufficient cover. A second flat area at Lower Boy Scout Lake can be avoided by skirting south around the lake back to the outlet. Skiing ends at about 9200ft when the trail enters dense trees.

The Mountaineers couloir is about 35°, the north face above the notch is significantly steeper.

Best time: March and April.