Conquer Mt. Whitney – October 24th to 28th, 2024

Summit Mt. Whitney!
Join us for an unforgettable 5-day expedition to the highest point in the contiguous United States. Everything is provided for the trip, except your flight to Fresno Yosemite International Airport. Acclimatize, hike, and summit with expert guides leading the way through scenic and challenging terrain.

Dates: October 24th – October 28th, 2024
Group Size: 12 participants
Difficulty: Moderate to Difficult

Trip Overview

• October 24th: Mandatory Acclimatization Day – Camp at over 8,000 feet at Whitney Portal.
• October 25th-27th: Hike to Trail Camp and summit Mt. Whitney via Consultation Lake.
• October 28th: Backup day for weather or trail delays; descend and return to Fresno.

This trip is designed for experienced hikers looking to take on the challenge of summiting Mt. Whitney. You’ll enjoy four nights camping at high altitudes, including a mandatory acclimatization day to prepare for the summit. The expedition includes a planned exit on October 27th, but we’ve reserved an extra day for any unforeseen delays or challenges.

Itinerary

Day 1: Thursday, October 24th – Arrival & Acclimatization

• Arrival: Land at Fresno Airport by 1:00 PM.
• Transport: Shuttle to Whitney Portal (4.5-hour drive).
• Evening: Set up camp and acclimatize at 8,360 feet. Enjoy a hearty dinner and a good night’s rest at Whitney Portal.

Day 2: Friday, October 25th – Hike to Trail Camp

• Morning: Early breakfast, followed by the hike from Whitney Portal.
• Route: Scenic detour via Consultation Lake for acclimatization and added elevation gain (approx. 6 miles to Trail Camp).
• Evening: Set up camp at 12,000 feet and rest for the remainder of the day.
• Overnight: Camp near Consultation Lake.

Day 3: Saturday, October 26th – Summit Mount Whitney!

• Early Start: We’ll begin our ascent before dawn to maximize daylight hours and summit chances.
• Route: From Trail Camp to the summit, navigating the 99 Switchbacks and Trail Crest, ending with the ridge push to the summit at 14,505 feet!
• Summit: Enjoy breathtaking views from the highest point in the contiguous United States. We’ll then descend back to Trail Camp.
• Overnight: Camp near Consultation Lake to recover.

Day 4: Sunday, October 27th – Descend to Whitney Portal & Travel to Fresno

• Morning: Pack up camp and begin our descent to Whitney Portal.
• Travel: Shuttle back to Fresno, arriving late afternoon or early evening.
• Flight Recommendations: We recommend booking flights departing Fresno after 7:00 PM on Sunday.

Day 5: Monday, October 28th – Backup Day (if needed)

• Optional: This day is reserved in case of weather delays or unforeseen issues on the trail.

Important Details

• Flight: Flight to Fresno Yosemite International Airport is not included.
• Meals & Accommodations: All meals and camping accommodations are provided, including tents and sleeping gear.
• Transport: Ground transportation from Fresno to Whitney Portal and back is included.
• WhatsApp Group: Join our WhatsApp group for updates and to ask any questions: https://chat.whatsapp.com/BCZ0QpYglvXFe1sSWkjiYN
• Contact: Email us with any questions at justice@connectandhike.com.

Note: Our permit only allows us to take 12 hikers. Please RSVP only if you are serious about joining to avoid taking someone else’s opportunity to summit Mt. Whitney.

Cheers!