Mt. Whitney - July 4-6, 2006
Posted: Sun Jul 09, 2006 5:43 pm
On 7/4 at 0815 hrs, myself and two newbies headed up the main trail to stay at trail camp for a summit attempt on 7/5, with a return on 7/6. As we approached the Portal, we saw Whitney was deep within a dark cloud. But we kept our hopes up and would see what would come later in the day. Needless to say, we made it to trail camp, walking from outpost to trail camp in varying degrees of hail, rain, and thunder. Many folks were heading off the hill, most dayhikers stating they felt static in the air. I decided to poke my head out at trail camp, check for others, and give a good look around. Luckily, when we reached the camp, there were a few still around, and the weather seemed to calm, without static. We set up camp and decided to see what the future would hold. Lulckily, the sun came out that evening, and the skys began to clear for the most part.
The following morning was clear and warm. We had been blessed for a great summit day. Clouds did form around trail crest, but a blue corridor remained overhead for the duration of the day. All the while, it looked like the sky could fall, but it held and was beautiful. All made it to the summit by 1200 hrs. While I warned many of the coming clouds which could shorten our attempt, we got lucky and the weather created some great views. Our return to trail camp, was perfect, as was the trip up. We did see a backpack left by the trail, which a marmot appearantly found as well. Shame on this hiker; take your food with you.
The return to the portal had the best weather ever. Blue skys, moderate temps, cool breeze. We made it to the portal at 1105 am. Tried to catch breakfast, but were a bit late. Nonetheless, Doug made a lady a huge pancake, she could not finish it, so we got it. After that and some burgers, we headed home.
Temps in the day were warm and mild, nightime temps were around freezing.
Great trip, this the fourth time in three years for me, but the first for two friends, who really liked the backpacking experience. What a way to get your first overnighter under your belt, a summit trip of Whitney.
Photos are here:
http://www.dnkrhodes.com/main/thumbnails.php?album=67
Enjoy.
The following morning was clear and warm. We had been blessed for a great summit day. Clouds did form around trail crest, but a blue corridor remained overhead for the duration of the day. All the while, it looked like the sky could fall, but it held and was beautiful. All made it to the summit by 1200 hrs. While I warned many of the coming clouds which could shorten our attempt, we got lucky and the weather created some great views. Our return to trail camp, was perfect, as was the trip up. We did see a backpack left by the trail, which a marmot appearantly found as well. Shame on this hiker; take your food with you.
The return to the portal had the best weather ever. Blue skys, moderate temps, cool breeze. We made it to the portal at 1105 am. Tried to catch breakfast, but were a bit late. Nonetheless, Doug made a lady a huge pancake, she could not finish it, so we got it. After that and some burgers, we headed home.
Temps in the day were warm and mild, nightime temps were around freezing.
Great trip, this the fourth time in three years for me, but the first for two friends, who really liked the backpacking experience. What a way to get your first overnighter under your belt, a summit trip of Whitney.
Photos are here:
http://www.dnkrhodes.com/main/thumbnails.php?album=67
Enjoy.
