White Mountain Peak Trail

The White Mountain Peak Trail is a 15.5-mile out-and-back to the third highest peak in the White Mountain mountain range. Located northeast of Bishop, California, this challenging trek takes you into a high desert mountain range which is home to some of the world's oldest living trees. Although the trail is exposed and water is scarce, the relatively accessible summit offers incredible panoramic views. The majority of the trail is a wide dirt road that is open to hikers, backpackers, trail runners, and mountain bikers. There are no special skills or gear required to reach the top of the third highest mountain in California, but that doesn't mean it is an easy trek. The trail begins at over 11,000 feet above sea level, then climbs 3,400 feet in 7.5 miles to reach the summit.To reach the trailhead, one must travel a long, winding dirt road. Located along the dirt road up to the trailhead, the Ancient Bristlecone Pine Forest is a worthy side trip for anyone interested in visiting the oldest living trees in the world. White Mountain, California's third highest peak, rises to 14,252 feet above sea level and is one of only two 14ers outside the Sierra Nevada mountains. From the top, views of the Sierra Nevada in the west and Nevada desert in the east are incredible.WATERThe trail to the peak is fully exposed and has no water. Visitors must plan accordingly and plan to carry enough water for the journey. TRAILHEADThe trail begins at the Barcroft Gate located along White Mountain Road. PERMITSThere are no permits required to hike up to White Mountain. MORE INFORMATIONWhite Mountain Ranger Station Visitor Center: https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/inyo/recreation/recarea/?recid=40292 Ancient Bristlecone Pine Forest Visitor Center: https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/inyo/recarea/?recid=20272&actid=50. White Mountain Weather: https://www.mountain-forecast.com/peaks/White-Mountain-Peak/forecasts/4342.