At 14,495 feet Mount Whitney is the high point of the lower forty-eight states and a goal for mountaineers. 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. The first recorded ascent of Mount Whitney was in 1873 by a party led by the California Geological Survey. The first documented ascent of Mount Whitney via the Mountaineer’s Route was made by Norman Clyde, a legendary mountaineer, in 1928. Over the years, the Mountaineer’s Route has gained popularity among climbers seeking a more adventurous and challenging ascent of Mount Whitney. However, it remains less crowded than the standard hiking route, which is why many climbers are drawn to it.
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, lunches and dinners (you bring hot/cold drinks and snack items).
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 an physical training in the “Resources” tab.
Videos
Presenting our video description capturing the captivating journey up the North Fork of Lone Pine Creek to Upper Boy Scout Lake with Sierra Mountain Center.
Our video description offering an immersive glimpse into the exhilarating ascent of the Mountaineer’s Route with Sierra Mountain Center.
Another captivating video documenting an unforgettable journey up the Mountaineer’s Route with a spirited group hailing from Japan.
Day One: The Approach. Our journey begins in Lone Pine, where we convene before embarking on our ascent from the Whitney Portal, situated at an elevation of 8,640 feet. We initially follow the primary Whitney Trail for a short distance, shortly veering onto the demanding North Fork of Lone Pine Creek route. This rugged and unmaintained trail presents a challenging path, replete with creek crossings and rocky scrambles. As we progress, we navigate the formidable ‘Ebersbacher’ Ledges, perched above the meandering creek, eventually arriving at the tranquil enclave of Lower Boy Scout Lake, nestled at an elevation of 10,335 feet. From this idyllic spot, our ascent continues with a steady climb, leading us to our overnight campsite adjacent to Upper Boy Scout Lake, which sits at an elevation of 11,200 feet and rests beneath the imposing Mount Russell. This journey involves an impressive elevation gain of 2,500 feet from our starting point at the trailhead and typically consumes the better part of the day
Day Two: The Climb. We ascend beyond the enchanting Iceberg Lake, situated at an elevation of 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, when snow renders this traverse unfeasible, we opt for a direct ascent via third-class rock, employing ropes and belays for safety as we ascend to the summit plateau, which lies just a short distance from the summit itself. Our goal is to reach the summit around midday, with the entire round trip typically spanning a duration of 8 to 12 hours, from camp to camp.
Day Three: The Hike Out. Our descent 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. If you wish, savor the iconic burgers and fries, replenishing your energy before heading home.
Elevations and Distances
Trailhead to Lower Boy Scout Lake (1.9 miles 2060’ of gain 60’ of descent)
Lower Boyscout Lake to Upper Boy Scout Lake (0.8 miles 1040’ of gain 30’ of descent)
Upper Boyscout Lake to Iceberg Lake (1.2 miles 1310’ of gain 30’ of descent)
Iceberg Lake to the Summit (0.75 miles 1870’of gain 30’ of descent)
Summit to camp (1.95 miles 60’ of gain 3180’ of descent)
Camp to Trailhead (2.7 miles 90’ of gain 3100’ of descent)
Do not be fooled by the short mileages. Focus on the total amount of ascent and descent!
★ Please Read before you go ★
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