High Sierra Hiking Guide to Mt Whitney: The Peak and Surrounding Highlands

Rating:
Summary: Best book on Mt Whitney
Review: If you want to hike Mt Whitney or the area you don't have a choice-you must buy this book. It comes with a topo map and the book descibes every trail on the quadrangle, along with historical and natural information. Don't bother going to Mt Whitney without this book.

Rating:
Summary: A Must Have prior to the Ascent
Review: This is an excellent book for first-time climbers of Mt. Whitney. The author explains the perils, pitfalls and also the exhilaration of climbing the highest peak in the lower 48 states. The book is especially strong on maps, even though finding Mt. Whitney is not at all difficult; there is only one stop light in Lone Pine, turn there and head up the 14 miles to the portal.

A word of caution though, for a first-time climber reading this review. Please do not attempt this hike unless you are supremely physically fit. I have seen many sobering cases of hikers on Whitney who were simply not prepared for the rigors of this climb. Most physically fit people should be able to do the 21 miles in 12-13 hours. If it takes you 24 hours you will suffer and it will be a miserable experience. Train for at least six months before attempting to summit. Be sure and run 25-40 miles a week, hike every weekend at altitude (if practicable)and invest in a good stairclimber. You must have strong quads and calves in order to enjoy the hike and the descent will be brutal on your knees, no matter how fit you are. Also go out for several 10 hour hikes in order to prepare yourself mentally for this challenge. The mental part of Whitney is as difficult as the physical, particularly on the descent when you've been on the trail for a long time already.

In addition, plan to spend at least two nights sleeping at altitude prior to the ascent. Many people simply sleep in their car at Whitney Portal, but if this is an uncomfortable thought, stay at gorgeous Mammoth Lakes, about 150 miles North of Whitney. Mammoth is at 8,500 feet and there are several perfect hikes of 10-12 miles there to prepare for for altitude (Duck Pass is my favorite).

Climbing Whitney can be a defining moment in your life. I return every year and look forward to it with relish. If you are fit, properly acclimated and mentally ready, you will find Whitney to be one of the best and most fulfilling things you've ever done in your life. Good luck!