Mount Whitney Adventures

Mount Whitney in California, named after a Chief Geologist of California, the late Jesiah Whitney, is the highest point in the contiguous United States. It is equally famous for towering over 2 miles above the lowest point in the U.S. in Mount Whitney less than 90 miles away.

Local California fisherman Charles “Blue Charlie” Begole, A. H. Johnson and John Lucas were the 1st European-Americans to climb to the summit of Mt. Whitney in 1873. Climbing Mount Whitney to Mt. Whitney has since become a much sought-after accomplishment to hiking and climbing enthusiasts. Permits to hike, climb and camp Mount Whitney are always in high demand, especially from mid-July through early October when the summit is accessible.

Ascending Mount Whitney is strenuous and difficult, and precautions must be taken against bears, falls and inclement weather. Altitude sickness is a common complaint among those who try to make the summit in a single day, for example. For more information contact the Mt. Whitney Ranger District, INYO National Forest. PO Box 8, Lone Pine, CA 93545, or call (760) 873-2483.