On Day 2, we’ll have an early start, eating breakfast before driving to the Whitney Portal trailhead. The hike to Trail Camp covers about 6.3 miles and gains roughly 3,700 feet of elevation. We’ll ascend through alpine forest and granite terrain, possibly stopping at Outpost Camp for a snack break along the way. By mid-afternoon, we’ll arrive at Trail Camp, located at approximately 12,000 feet. After setting up camp and filtering water from the tarn, the rest of the afternoon will be focused on rest and acclimatization. We’ll share an early dinner, review summit logistics, and prep our packs for the next morning’s alpine start.

Distance: 6.3 miles
Elevation gain & loss: +3,700 feet

Day 3 is summit day. We’ll wake up around 3:00 to 4:00am and begin our ascent under headlamps, climbing steadily through the infamous 99 switchbacks to reach Trail Crest. From there, we’ll traverse along a dramatic ridge to reach the summit of Mount Whitney at 14,505 feet—the highest point in the contiguous United States. After soaking in the views and celebrating our achievement, we’ll descend carefully back to Trail Camp, where we’ll rest, rehydrate, and enjoy a well-earned dinner. The remainder of the evening will be low-key, with time to stretch, relax, and reflect on the summit experience before turning in for our final night in the mountains.

Day 3 distance: 9.4 miles roundtrip from camp
Day 3 elevation gain & loss: +2,000

On Day 4, we’ll enjoy a slower-paced morning before packing up camp and beginning our descent back to Whitney Portal. The hike out is about 6.3 miles and drops nearly 3,700 feet. We aim to reach the trailhead by late morning or early afternoon. Once there, we’ll gather for a final group debrief and a celebratory stop at the Whitney Portal Store, home of the famous post-hike burger, before parting ways.

Distance: 6.3 miles
Elevation Gain: -3,700 feet

Total trip mileage: 22 miles

Total elevation gain: 6,140 feet

Total elevation loss: 6,140 feet