Mount Whitney (14,505 ft) is the tallest mountain in the contiguous US (lower 48 states). It’s a long 22-mile out-and-back hike with about 6,000 ft of elevation gain. You can day hike it or overnight camp, but either way, you need a permit which can be obtained during the pre-season lotto or through last-minute permit … Continue reading Is it Better to Day Hike or Backpack for Mt. Whitney?