Whitney Hiking

[zeeke]

Is there any groups that hike up Mt. Whitney in the spring and cost less than $600?

[hikehigh]

Is there any groups that hike up Mt. Whitney in the spring and cost less than $600?

Do you mean a spring snow climb, or a hike once the snow melts?

[asabat]

Have you asked at www.whitneyportalstore.com -> Message Board?

[Cy Kaicener]

I dont know what they charge but here are some pictures
http://sierramountaineering.com/blog/

[phydeux]

If you want to do a summertime hike up the main trail, either a long day hike to the summit or an overnight trip, its not too difficult to get an unused permit during the summer months. Lots of folks who reserved a spot during the March lottery don't show up, and the permits get re-issued on a first come/first served basis. Odds are best on summer weekdays when there is no holiday weekend either before or after the day you want to start. If you can be a little flexible in your schedule (1-2 days), you shouldn't have a problem; I just consider it a small 'penalty' for lack of planning on my part. You can always use the extra days to acclimatize and sight see in and around the Owens Valley.

Disclaimer: I haven't been up the trail in over a decade, but lots of others who post on the WPSMB still find this method works.

[Kevin]

Disclaimer: I haven't been up the trail in over a decade, but lots of others who post on the WPSMB still find this method works.

I use this method a couple of times a year, and it works fine. Never been turned away, although one time I got the next-to-last dayhiking permit.

You can call the Visitor Center for the best time to get a permit for the next day, as the times sometimes vary year-to-year. IIRC, last year it was 2PM, but that may change.

As phydeux said - be flexible. If your schedule permits an extra day, try to plan on it, just in case you've driven a long distance. And do it mid-week, as there's less demand on those days.

[Rumpled]

Guides are not allowed on the Main Mount Whitney Trail (MMWT).
If you hire a guide, you will do the North Fork or Mountaineer's Trail as a hike (or go all out and climb the East Butress or somethint)

If you just want to dayhike, the other advice is good - shoot for a midweek day.