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Mt. Whitney via the Mountaineer’s Route
$1,195
Dates
- May 16-18 | May 30-June 1 | June 13-15, 27-29 | July 11-13, 18-20 | August 15-17, 29-31 | September 12-14, 26-28 | October 3-5, 10-12
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.
This is a steep, unmaintained route. Some 3rd and 4th class sections will require “scrambling” or the use of your hands to balance your body as you climb. This can be challenging at elevation and with a heavy pack on!
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. Prior experience hiking off trail, at elevation, is recommended.
Inclusions
Price includes guiding, permits, group climbing gear, tents, kitchen gear, breakfasts, and dinners (you bring lunches, hot/cold drinks, and snack items).
What to Expect
Expect to carry up to 35-40 pounds. The trail to base camp is steep, with lots of step-ups. On day one, we climb the equivalent of over 200 flights of stairs along a varied trail. Prepare physically and approach your mountain adventure with an open and adaptable mindset. Our staff is here to help you prepare physically and mentally.
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.
Porters
If you are worried about carrying a heavy pack through challenging terrain, we have porters available to help. Reach out to our office before or after you register, to hire a porter
Day 1
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.
Day 2
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.
Day 3
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.
Distances and Elevations
Trailhead to camp at Upper Boy Scout Lake: 2.7 miles, 3,100 ft of elevation gain
Camp to summit to camp: 4 miles, 3,200 feet of elevation gain and loss
Camp to trailhead: 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!
Rental Equipment
We have rental equipment available at checkout.
Reviews
Jason, Palisase Traverse
“What a fantastic trip put together for us by the Sierra Mountain Center. From the start Emma was fantastic and professional in the coordination efforts for our Palisade Traverse trip. My son and I had a 1:1 guide ratio and the guides, Dave Stimson and Tyler Logan, were exceptional. Exceptional in their knowledge of the route, their efficiency with rope craft and their trailside manner – despite the exhausting climb we had such a fun time. We are already planning next year’s outing with SMC.”
More Reviews
Chris, Mt. Whitney via the Mountaineer’s Route
“I went on the Mt Whitney via the mountaineers route with Sierra Mountain Center. Our guide Louie made sure we were safe while helping us reach our goal of getting to the summit. Everything was explained clearly beforehand. I’ve never done rock climbing before and Louie did a great job of providing the needed instruction and coaching. Best of the best – highly recommended!”
Fred, Mt. Whitney via the East Buttress
“Used SMC for a climb of the East Buttress of Mt. Whitney June 17, 2024. Great experience all the way around. Dave was my guide and I highly recommend choosing them for your Sierra adventure!”
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