You got the Mt. Whitney permit...now what? Critical Planning Steps

On March 24th, hundreds of soon to be hikers, got the good or bad news of getting a Mt. Whitney permit.

If you got one, Congratulations for securing a permit for Whitney!!!  There are thousands, tens of thousands, of applications that go into the lottery each year and only 100 permits are given for each day.  You are a lucky winner!!!  

If this is your first (or second) attempt for Whitney, there is some initial and critical first steps before you get started on your training.  Get your calendar out and you wallet and do this right away!!!  If you are doing this summit with a friend or friends, be sure they are also ready with their calendars and wallets.  You may have some friends change their mind.  Don't worry, you are going to have a great time.

Figure out if you are camping the night before or staying at the local motels down in Lone Pine.   There are benefits to both but any advantage of getting at altitude is more valuable then clean sheets.  just saying...
Campsites are going fast and may all be gone.  To get a campsite at the Whitney Portal visit the website for federal parks and search "Whitney Portal".  The portal also has a dozen or so, 'first come first serve' campsites.  Cross your fingers.  There always seems to be campsites available but maybe i've been lucky.

The next thing to secure is where you are sleeping the night after your hike.  Clean sheets wins here!!  I always go to the Dow Villa Motel in Lone Pine.  They are near many restaurants, have a pool & jacuzzi, and rooms are always clean. They also have AAA discount.  

The final prep work you need to line up is your training schedule.  2-3 months is a great way to prepare for Whitney.  Give yourself a month of medium hikes about 5-12 miles in length with ample elevation.  Spend the final 1-2 months, with 12-20 miles hikes at altitude.  Mark your calendar and follow your plan.  Depending on your location and which hikes you are doing, you will need to secure a permit prior.  Gorgonio requires a permit and they do check!!  San Jacinto needs a permit and you will need to request one if you are climbing via Humber Park.  

DO NOT PROCRASTINATE. This planning will save you many headaches.

Shoes are next...
Chi