Mount Whitney 2-Day Main Trail Expedition¶

A 2-day overnight hike to the highest point in the lower 48 states via the Main Trail — 99 switchbacks, Trail Camp, and the wide summit plateau.

Overview¶

Mount Whitney (4,421m) is the highest peak in the contiguous United States, and the Main Trail is its most accessible route — a 34km round trip from Whitney Portal at 2,550m. This 2-day itinerary camps at Trail Camp (3,660m) on day one, then reaches the summit via the 99 switchbacks and the summit plateau on day two. No technical gear is required, but the altitude, distance, and permit lottery make it a coveted overnight objective for Sierra Nevada hikers. Quota permits are issued by lottery months in advance.

Day 1: Whitney Portal to Trail Camp¶

Ascend the Main Trail through lodgepole pine and granite boulder terrain, passing Lone Pine Lake and Outpost Camp to reach Trail Camp beside a high alpine tarn at 3,660m. Wag bags and bear canisters are required by permit.

Day 2: Trail Camp to Summit and Return to Portal¶

Climb the famous 99 switchbacks on the west face to the crest trail junction, then traverse the broad summit plateau to the stone shelter at 4,421m. Descend the full trail back to Whitney Portal in the afternoon.