Mount Whitney Hiking Tour & Trip Packages | Adventure Tripr

Mount Whitney Tour Overview

Mount Whitney is the tallest peak in the contiguous United States and the Sierra Nevada range in California at 14,494 feet (4,418 mt). First summited in 1873, it offers a classic alpine experience with high-altitude lakes, meadows, and rugged granite landscapes. The peak has a flat-dome-shaped summit with jagged granite ridges. Above the treeline, Mount Whitney has an alpine climate with snow slopes in winter, exposing granite in summer. 

Along the trail, you’ll enjoy spectacular views of the granite faces of nearby Mount Russell, the Great Western Divide, and the Owens Valley. With routes ranging from easy scrambling to challenging rock climbs, Mount Whitney is an adventure for every hiker. 

Country Name and location

• Country Name: United States

• Location: Sierra Nevada Range, California

• Elevation: 14,494 feet (4,418 mt)

• Difficulty: Grade 3 (Moderate)

• Experience: Intermediate

What are the Major Attractions of the Mount Whitney Tour?

Climbing Routes

Mount Whitney offers several routes of varying difficulty, making it accessible to both beginners and advanced adventurers. Each path provides unique landscapes and thrilling experiences. Here are the known routes:

Mount Whitney Trail

The most popular path starts at Whitney Portal near Lone Pine (Inyo County, California). This strenuous 22-mile (35 km) round-trip trail gains over 6,100 feet (1,859 mt) in elevation and is ideal for experienced hikers. Taking up to 14 hours to complete, the hike offers an unforgettable experience.

Mountaineers Route

For an easy scramble trail starting from Whitney Portal, the Mountaineers Route is a grade 3 hike open year-round. It’s non-technical but demands endurance due to its high altitude. In winter, the route transforms into a snow hike requiring ice axes and crampons. Opt for this hike if you want a secluded hiking adventure far from the crowds on Whitney Trail. 

Technical Climbs

For rock climbers, the East Face and East Buttress routes provide an exciting challenge. These climbs of 5.7 to 5.10-grade start near Iceberg Lake and ascend the Eastern granite faces of Whitney. Suitable for climbers with basic to advanced skills, these routes are part of the iconic "Fifty Classic Climbs of North America."

Lone Pine Lake

Lone Pine Lake at 10,050 feet (3,063 mt), accessible from Whitney Portal, follows the Mount Whitney Trail. It’s a moderate hike that takes about 2-3 hours to reach the lake. Along the way, you’ll cross a log path over Lone Pine Creek and see the beautiful Adams Falls. The lake is encircled by granite peaks of the Eastern Sierra.

Iceberg Lake 

Iceberg Lake, at around 12,000 feet (3,657 mt), is frozen throughout the year and serves as the high camp en route to the East Face routes of Mount Whitney including the Mountaineer's Route. Known for its stunning "alpenglow," when the early morning light illuminates Mount Whitney and the surrounding peaks, you must add this stop to your Mount Whitney hiking trip.

Lone Pine

Lone Pine, a small town in Inyo County of the Owens Valley and gateway to Mount Whitney is known for contrasting desert and alpine landscapes. There are many attractions near Lone Pine but the popular ones are:

Alabama Hills: Just outside the town lies the Alabama Hills Recreational Area, where incredible rock formations and golden granite boulders create a unique landscape, with natural wonders like the famous 7-foot (2 mt) Mobius Arch—a short hike offering iconic views of both the arch and Mount Whitney in the background. 

Death Valley: Just an hour from Lone Pine lies Death Valley National Park, the lowest and hottest place in the U.S. Famous for its extreme desert landscapes with dunes and canyons, Badwater Basin is the lowest point in the western hemisphere. Plan an extended trip to explore both Mount Whitney and Death Valley to experience the thrill of North America's highest and lowest elevations.

The John Muir Trail 

If you are up for a week-long backpacking adventure in the Sierra Nevada, consider The John Muir Trail (JMT). A long-distance trail passing through Yosemite, Kings Canyon, and Sequoia National Parks, it ends at Whitney Portal after climbing Mount Whitney. 

Mount Whitney Permits

To manage the crowds on Mount Whitney, a lottery system is used for hiking permits. You can apply for a permit during the lottery from February 1 to March 1 each year, with results posted on March 15. If you miss the lottery, permits may be available during the mini-sale on April 22 for unclaimed/canceled permits or throughout the hiking season from May 1 to November 1. Important points to remember:

• During peak season, permits must be reserved online, no walk-up permits are available. 

• To find the right permit for your hike, use the step-by-step questionnaire on Recreation.gov. 

• A permit is required for both day hiking and backpacking during the hiking season.

• To avoid permits, you can hike Mount Whitney in the winter (between November 2 and April 30). During this time there is no lottery system, you can directly get permits from the park office.

Best Month - Seasons to Hike Mount Whitney Tour

Summer, from June to September, is the most popular and optimal time to hike Mount Whitney, with warm weather and snow-free trails. But it can be crowded. Late spring (end of May) and fall (October) offer cooler temperatures and fewer crowds but with unpredictable weather. In winter (November to April), snow starts accumulating, making it ideal for experienced hikers seeking a snow adventure. Though permits are easier to obtain in winter, conditions are strenuous.

Essential Advice and Tips for Mount Whitney Tour 

• Pack Wisely: Temperatures drop at night, so always bring a jacket. Carry trekking poles and a headlamp. Pack light to avoid exertion. 

• Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water and refill your bottle at available sources. There are no water sources above 12,000 feet (3,657 mt), so remember to fill up before the summit push.

• Nutrition: Carry energy bars, fruits, or dry fruits to stay energized.

• Pack Out Waste: Use a bag for all human waste as there are no toilets. You can relieve yourself 100 feet (31 mt) from water sources, away from plants.

• Store Food Safely: Use a bear canister to protect your food from rodents and birds. Don’t leave eatables in your car, instead bear lockers are available at the trailhead for food you won't take with you. 

• Prepare physically and mentally: Start your physical preparation months ahead to get in shape for carrying a 45-65 pound (20-28 kg) backpack for 6-10 hours. High-altitude hikes are strenuous, so be mentally prepared. 

How much does it cost for a Mount Whitney Tour?

Mount Whitney hiking packages vary based on the number of participants, duration, and chosen route. At AdventureTripr, we offer affordable Mount Whitney tour packages, including a 3-day hiking package via the Mountaineers Route for $1,215.  

Mount Whitney Tour Accommodation

When planning your stay near Mount Whitney, accommodation options vary depending on the tour package you choose. You can find a range of places to stay, from high-end lodges to budget-friendly hotels, including hotels, homestays, and campgrounds. The Whitney Portal campground is a popular choice but you can also stay in Lone Pine before starting your hike. Various camps are available along the hiking trail where you can set up tents. Make sure to follow camping guidelines. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Question 1: How to reach Mount Whitney?

Answer 1: Mammoth Lakes is the closest airport, but Los Angeles and Las Vegas are the big city airports. After landing, rent a car and drive to Lone Pine. From Lone Pine, Mount Whitney trailhead is just 13 miles (20 km) away. You can also take trains and buses to reach Lone Pine.

Question 2: What experience level is required to climb Mount Whitney?

Answer 2: While prior climbing experience is helpful, it's not mandatory. However, you should be familiar with using ropes, knots, ice axes, and crampons if hiking in the winter. Good fitness is essential for hiking 4-5 hours with a backpack.

Question 3: How long is the Mount Whitney hike?

Answer 3: Depending on your fitness and experience, the Mount Whitney hike can be a one-day or multi-day trip. Allow for extra days to acclimatize and avoid altitude sickness.

Question 4: Is there a risk of AMS on Mount Whitney?

Answer 4: Yes, the risk of AMS begins around 10,000 feet (3,000 meters). To prevent it, ensure you rest, eat well, and stay hydrated. If you have any medical conditions, consult your doctor. Hire a trusted tour operator for safety on the hike.