Near Whitney Portal to Lone Pine Lake
Enjoying the Moment: Hikers at Mt Whitney Trail, Highest Peak in Continental USA with permission from Elena Omelchenko
Near Whitney Portal to Lone Pine Lake
Great views accompany the trail split!
Near Whitney Portal to Lone Pine Lake
Fall foliage on the Mt. Whitney Trail.
Near Whitney Portal to Lone Pine Lake
A brief pass in the mountains give a view from the Mt. Whitney Trail.

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Driving Directions
Hike Route

Whitney Portal to Lone Pine Lake

4.5 (2 Ratings)
Local favorite to enjoy Whitney without permits.
6
mi
Distance
1,847
ft
Gain
moderate
Difficulty
BirdingFall ColorsFishingGeologically SignificantLakeRiver/CreekSpringViewsWaterfallWildlife
Access Issues
Seasonal Closures

Route Details

Flatter
Steeper
6.01mi
Distance
1,847ft
Elevation Gain
1,847ft
Elevation Loss
55%
Max Grade
10,040ft
High Point
8,326ft
Low Point
Path Type
There and Back
Description
Start at the portal and go up the Whitney Trail. You enjoy the views of the canyon and the city in the distant. You'll get to a small creek crossing that is fun. After this, you're on the switchbacks.The switchbacks are not hard. But there is a lot of them. So you'll see the same views and just gets tedious but don't worry, you are making progress. Slowly, you get out of the switchbacks.As soon as you finish the switchbacks, you see an amazing cascading waterfall! These treat usually occurs in spring/summer/fall season. The trail becomes more flat but the views are great. You'll make quick strides until you get a log crossing that is well maintained that goes over a creek. This part is really fun. You'll eventually get close to the cliff side and you'll see a sign for Lone Pine Lake to your left.Follow this short trail and you'll arrive at your destination. It's such a beautiful lake. Take a dip to cool off and run back. (During Winter, its possible that this lake is completely frozen!) The run back down isn't too hard. Those switchbacks will end soon enough.

Route Conditions

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Contributors
Adan Wongchalermthan