Mount Whitney via Mount Whitney Trail

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Features Commonly Backpacked · Geological Significance · Lake · River/Creek · Views · Wildflowers · Wildlife

Rising to 14,505 feet, Mount Whitney is the highest summit in the contiguous (Lower 48) United States. Tens of thousands come to hike Whitney each year for premier Serra Nevada views, whether on the lower trails on the mountain's flanks or via one of the major routes to the summit. Of the various approaches, the Mount Whitney Trail that leaves from Whitney Portal is the most popular and accessible choice. During peak season the trail is well-maintained and easy to follow. From early summer on, the mountain clears of snow and ice, and reaching the summit via the trail requires no mountaineering or winter gear.

Permits are always required, and there's a lottery system that's very strict. Search Recreation.gov for information on how to apply for and obtain a permit. Beyond the length and steepness of this trail, high altitude is a major factor to consider when planning the pace of an ascent. Strong and experienced runners can complete the Mount Whitney Trail in one day, but for most, a two-day approach provides much-needed time for rest and acclimatization. Many backpackers on a two-day schedule will camp at Trail Camp, which sits at 12,039 feet and a little over 6 miles from the trailhead. Outpost Camp, at 10,360 feet, is another good option.

As the Lower 48's highest summit, and one with a maintained trail all the way to the top, Whitney is of course a world-class mountain run. No matter how fast you go, however, runners need a permit all the same.

At Whitney Portal, find the trailhead for the Mount Whitney Trail located below the Whitney Portal Store. Climb along the North Fork of Lone Pine Creek along several long switchbacks. Pass Lone Pine Lake at 2.8 miles.

At 3.5 miles you'll reach Bighorn Park, a scenic meadow with granite cliffs on both sides. A short while later is Outpost Camp at 3.8 miles.

Continue climbing through the increasingly rocky landscape to Trail Camp at 6.3 miles. Trail Camp is popular with Whitney climbers doing overnight trips.

Past Trail Camp are the infamous 99 switchbacks that climb the granite slope to Trail Crest, at 8.5 miles and 13,645 feet -- the highest trail pass in the United States. You'll get your first views west of the mountains, and they are spectacular.

Make the short jaunt to the junction with the John Muir Trail. From there it's a relatively level but high-elevation 2 miles to the summit along granite slabs. The "windows" between granite spires on your right provide dramatic views toward Owens Valley.

Near the top you'll pass the stone cabin, which is not for camping but for emergency use only. Just beyond is the true summit of Whitney, where large and reasonably flat boulders provide plenty of room to spread out. The views are absolutely mind-blowing, and if the weather is decent you'll want to spend plenty of time to enjoy it.

When ready to return, retrace everything you just climbed all the way back to the trailhead. Expect a round-trip day on the trail to take anywhere from 10 to 20 hours.