Summit of Mt. Whitney

Mt. Whitney is the highest peak in the contiguous United States. It stands over 14,500ft high at its peak (elevation gain of 6100') and it sure feels like it when you are up there.

Getting There

Located just West of Lone Pine, CA you take Whitney Portal Road West for 13 miles all the way to its end. You will enter a small, what seems like a village, that will have last-minute supplies and plenty of parking.

The Hike

I chose to take the single-day route and make it a turnaround trip. By stepping onto the trail at 1:00 a.m., I was able to watch the sunrise over a quick break at the "Trail Crest" location a couple of hours before the peak. As the sun started to light the path, I was able to take in the gorgeous scenery. From lakes, rivers, waterfalls, and massive rock cliffs, it was quite a sight to see. 

The 99 switchbacks are one of the most challenging parts of the hike. This section connects the trail camp to the high ridge and gains roughly 1,800 feet. Once you've pushed through this section, it's 2-miles to the summit. 

By 7:00 am I was standing at the top looking East into what felt like the midwest. The wind did pick up for the last 20 minutes of hiking or so but don't worry, there is a warming hut at the top to make a warm cup of coffee and rest the legs before the long walk back down. Don't forget to sign your name in the log!

The walk down was just as enjoyable as this time it was daylight for the entire walk. Plenty of lakes to take a dip in if you are warm, and plenty of places to stop for a quick break and take some photos.

By 1:00 pm I was back to the trailhead and eager to sit down for that delightful hamburger a cold beer at the Whitney Portal Store, which you can't miss.

Bathrooms

There are bathrooms at the campground at the trailhead. 

Preparation and Training

For more information on preparing and training for Mt. Whitney, you can read more in the story So you want to hike Mt. Whitney. 

Permits & Contact Info

Contact for Mt. Whitney permits and updated weather reports:

Eastern Sierra Interagency Visitor Center
Junction of Highway 395 and State Route 136
2 miles south of Lone Pine, CA 93545
760-873-2483