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Whitney Portal road conditions

PostPosted: Thu Nov 24, 2011 7:23 pm
by twicken2
Does anyone have information on road conditions to the portal? Is it worth trying to make it anywhere near the portal in a compact Honda?

Hoping to attempt the E Ridge of Mt. Russell this weekend, but may need to change my plan if I won't be able to get near the trailhead. Alternate route suggestions with easy approaches to the trailhead are greatly appreciated :).

Thanks

Re: Whitney Portal road conditions

PostPosted: Fri Nov 25, 2011 5:39 pm
by biz
There is a soft closure at the base of the switchbacks (the usual place). On Wednesday this week, there was a little bit of ice on the road in a couple places down low and a longer stretch up near the campgrounds. I parked facing downhill near the over flow parking area and didn't have any trouble exiting with a 2-wheel drive ford ranger. I would be wary driving up to the portal if there is any inclement weather in the forecast between now and when you go.

FYI, on Wednesday, the ledges were icy and there wasn't enough snow in the gully to bypass them. I used a rope to set up a hand line for the rest of my party.

Re: Whitney Portal road conditions

PostPosted: Fri Dec 02, 2011 7:50 pm
by TheNobleSunfish
Has anyone been up the Portal Road in the last couple of days? We were hoping to drive up on Sunday morning but only have a sedan.