Skip to main content
Usitour
National Park & Nature

Mount Whitney

📍 Mount Whitney, Sierra Nevada, California, USA
No photos yet
4/ 5.0
★★★★☆

Introduction

Mount Whitney is the highest peak in the contiguous United States at 4,418 m, rising on the rugged crest of California's Sierra Nevada. Southeast of Yosemite, it forms the greatest elevation relief in the Lower 48 with nearby Death Valley. The classic route is the Mountaineer's/Whitney Portal trail, about 34 km round trip with over 1,900 m gain — a strenuous alpine hike most people split over two days with high-camp. It passes alpine meadows, granite canyons and the 99-switchback climb to Trail Crest, then a ridge walk to summit views over peaks and desert. Given extreme altitude and fickle weather, a permit and solid fitness are essential.

✨ Highlights

1
Highest in Lower 48
4,418 m; a proud summit.
2
Portal Trail
Classic 34 km alpine round trip.
3
99 Switchbacks
Famous zigzag climb to Trail Crest.
4
Ridge Views
Summit over Sierra and desert.
5
Permit System
Lottery in peak season; plan early.
6
Star Camp
High camp for the Milky Way.

🛈 Practical Info

→Best season：Jul–Sep less snow
→Duration：1–2 days
→Getting there：From Lone Pine
→Permit：Forest Service lottery
→Gear：Alpine hiking kit
→Altitude：Watch for AMS

💡 Tips

• Peak-season permits sell out; lottery months ahead.
• Acclimatize before the summit push.
• Weather shifts; pack warm and rain layers.
• Long route; start early to avoid dark.
• Respect alpine ecology; stay on trail.
• Use poles; descents are hard on knees.

FAQ

Any practical tips for visiting Mount Whitney?

Peak-season permits sell out; lottery months ahead. Acclimatize before the summit push.

Information on this page is compiled from public sources. Opening hours, ticket prices and other details may change — please verify with official sources before your visit.