Hiking Mount Whitney isn’t just a bucket list adventure—it’s one of the most iconic challenges in the U.S. at 14,505 feet, making it the tallest peak in the Lower 48/ contiguous US. And I’ll be honest: Whitney isn’t just one hike. It’s a rabbit hole of planning, permit lotteries, route options, gear decisions, and whether you’re bold (or slightly unhinged) enough to attempt it as a day hike.
I’ve been lucky enough to hike Whitney multiple times by different routes and in different styles—from nervously stepping onto the trail as a beginner backpacker, to scrambling my way up the Mountaineer’s Route. Along the way, I’ve made every mistake, learned every lesson, and written a handful of detailed trip reports.
This guide pulls all of that together in one place so you can plan your own Whitney adventure with confidence.
Where is Mount Whitney?
Mount Whitney rises high above Lone Pine, California, at the edge of Sequoia National Park and Inyo National Forest. The most popular access is from the Whitney Portal trailhead (8,360 ft), just a short drive from town. While Whitney’s stats don’t seem impossible on paper—22 miles roundtrip and 6,100 ft of gain via the main trail—its high elevation and permit system make it a serious undertaking.
How to Get a Permit for Mount Whitney
Permits are the biggest hurdle, and planning starts at the beginning of the year. In fact, most people will tell you that securing a permit is harder than the actual hike!
I’ve written a full breakdown here:
👉 How to Get Mt. Whitney Permits 2025 and Tips
That post covers the lottery system, trail quotas, walk-up options, and my personal tricks for increasing your odds.
Routes to the Summit
There’s more than one way to the top. I’ve hiked Whitney on the main Mt Whitney Trail as a day hike, backpacked it over multiple days, and even climbed the technical Mountaineer’s Route. I have yet to climb it via alpine rock… but one day. Each option gives the mountain a different personality.
The Main Trail (Most Popular)
- Distance: ~22 miles roundtrip
- Elevation Gain: 6,100 ft
- Difficulty: Strenuous (but non-technical)
- Best For: Fit hikers ready for a long grind
Read my full report: Hiking Mount Whitney 14,505 ft for the First Time as a Beginner Backpacker
Mountaineer’s Route (For the Adventurous)
- Distance: ~10 miles roundtrip
- Elevation Gain: ~6,000 ft
- Difficulty: Steep, technical sections, exposed scrambling
- Best For: Experienced climbers and scramblers who know how to use crampons and an ice axe
My story: Climb the Mountaineers Route on Mount Whitney 14,505 ft
Day Hike vs Backpacking Whitney
Some people hammer out all 22 miles in a single push, others spread it across two or three days. I’ve done both, and each has its pros and cons.
Check out my comparison: Is it Better to Day Hike or Backpack for Mt. Whitney?
Training & Preparation
Whitney isn’t the place to test your fitness for the first time. The elevation alone can ruin an otherwise strong hiker’s day. Spend time at altitude beforehand, train with long hikes, and get comfortable carrying a loaded pack if you’re backpacking. I’ve met several people who were doing Whitney as their first hike ever and needless to say, it wasn’t a smooth experience for them.
Gear Essentials
You’ll need more than your usual hiking kit:
- Bear canister (required for campers and rangers do check)
- Layers for freezing summit mornings, hot trailhead afternoons and commoon afternoon thunderstorms
- Plenty of water capacity (and a filter so you can carry less)
Pro Tip: your last water source before hitting the summit is around Trail Camp - Trekking poles for the endless downhill
- Headlamp (rechargeable and lightweight with 400 lumens = win)
FAQ – Hiking Mount Whitney
How hard is Mt. Whitney?
It’s challenging even for fit hikers due to distance, elevation gain, and altitude.
How long does it take?
Day hikers usually take 12–18 hours. Backpackers often split it into 2–3 days.
What’s the best time of year?
Late June through September is prime season, though weather is unpredictable.
Do I really need a permit?
Yes. All year round but quota season is from May 1 – Nov 1 and all hikers (day and overnight) must have a permit.
More Mount Whitney Resources from My Blog
- How to Get Mt. Whitney Permits 2025 and Tips
- Climb the Mountaineers Route on Mount Whitney 14,505 ft
- Is it Better to Day Hike or Backpack for Mt. Whitney?
- Hiking Mount Whitney 14,505 ft for the First Time as a Beginner Backpacker
- Quick Guide to all California 14ers
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Tiff, the owner and author of Follow Tiff’s Journey, is a California/ Colorado-based adventurer and outdoor connoisseur who divides her heart between the Eastern Sierra Mountains and the Colorado Rocky Mountains. Despite her fear of heights, she’s become a seasoned mountaineer, ultralight hiking and backcountry camping enthusiast, expert road trip planner, and a fervent explorer of alpine lakes, natural hot springs, and sandstone canyons.
With 10 years of experience exploring the outdoors, her blog is your go-to source for all things wilderness, offering invaluable insights and pro tips, essential gear recommendations, and awe-inspiring stories from her adventures.
Join Tiff on her quest to share the wonders of nature and inspire others to follow their own path in the great outdoors.