High Sierra Topix

I was looking for a climb that got me above 11500' and didn't involve hauling mountaineering gear. Mount Dubois in the White Mountains fit the bill by.

I arrived at the Forest Service Boundary along Chiatovich Creek Road at about 2 pm on 07/09/23. Water was flowing down the road but I started down it in my Tacoma. I felt that sucking sensation. The muddy ruts were no fun and with warming weather it could get worse; so, I backed out and packed my backpack for an overnight trip. It was hot and I had to haul water for dry camping. I started at 7000' and all went well on the road that ended at 8200'. From there I did okay for a while on an overgrown old road, ended up in bushwack hell for a short while, and then found a use trail and did okay until I reached 9100' and camped.

The trek the next day to Dubois was long but really nice. Only a couple short gentle snow patches along the way. A long day. Started at 5:30 am. Made the summit at 12:30 pm. Made it back to camp at 5:30 pm, packed up, and got back to the truck at about 8 pm.

Be careful to try to stay on the old road and use trail between 8200' and 9000' where it peters out. Some photos and map: https://kathywing.smugmug.com/Californi ... ountains-/

So, what do you think of the White Mountains?

I did a similar route many years ago as well as several other climbs. To me, the White Mountains are true wilderness- way out there. I never ran into other people, every trip was very challenging, and each caused a bit of anxiety.