At 14,495 feet, Mount Whitney is the high point of the lower forty-eight states, attracting mountaineers from across the globe. The Mountaineer’s Route is an alternative route to the more popular Whitney Trail, which is the standard hiking route to the summit of Mount Whitney. Over the years, the Mountaineer’s Route has gained popularity among climbers craving a less crowded, more exhilarating journey to the summit.
Prerequisites
Technical climbing skills are not required but prior backpacking experience is required as is experience at altitudes above 12,000’. This is a physically demanding trip and you should be in good condition and have the ability to traverse broken uneven slopes with a moderately heavy pack.
Inclusions
Price includes guiding, permits, group climbing gear, tents, kitchen gear, breakfasts and dinners.
Acclimatization & Physical Training
For proper acclimatization, we suggest spending at least one night at a moderate altitude, higher than 8,000 feet, just prior to the start of the journey. See our detailed tips on acclimatizing and physical training in the “Resources” tab.
Day One: The Approach
We meet in Lone Pine for a gear check before caravanning to the Whitney Portal trailhead. Our journey begins at 8,640 feet. We follow the primary Whitney Trail for a short distance, before veering onto the North Fork Route. This rugged and unmaintained route presents a challenging path with creek crossings and rocky scrambles. We navigate the ‘Ebersbacher’ Ledges, perched above the meandering creek, eventually arriving at Lower Boy Scout Lake at 10,335 feet. Our ascent continues with a steady climb, leading us to our basecamp adjacent to Upper Boy Scout Lake, at 11,200 feet.
2.7 miles, 3,100 ft of elevation gain
Day Two: The Climb
We ascend beyond the Iceberg Lake, situated at 12,400 feet, and proceed onto the distinguished Mountaineer’s Route itself. During the early season, when the gully retains snow, we may find it necessary to equip ourselves with crampons and ice axes. In contrast, late summer offers a steep but manageable class two talus slope.
Once we reach the pinnacle of the gully, we face a pivotal decision, contingent upon the season. In the later part of the season, when the snow has receded, we have the option of embarking on a straightforward, upward traverse along the north side of the peak, leading us to the expansive summit plateau. However, in snow conditions, we opt for a direct ascent via third-class rock, employing ropes and belays for safety, as we ascend to the summit plateau. We aim to reach the summit around midday, with the entire round trip typically spanning 8 to 12 hours, from camp to camp.
Camp to Summit: 2 miles, 3,180 feet of elevation gain
Day Three: The Hike Out
Our descent from basecamp takes us back along the North Fork of Lone Pine Creek, and we aim to reach the trailhead in time for a well-deserved lunch at the renowned Whitney Portal Store.
2.7 miles, 3,100 ft of elevation loss
*Do not be fooled by the short mileages. Focus on the total amount of ascent and descent!
★ Please Read before you go ★
We feel the following information is essential... (links open as PDF in new window)
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Equipment List
- Important trip Details
- Fitness, Training and Acclimatization Tips
- Leave No Trace
PDF Maps:
Mount Whitney Mountaineers Route Map
Rental Equipment:
Need to rent equipment for your trip? We can help.
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