Trail gear lists

Mount Whitney: what to bring

Inyo National Forest, California · 34.2 km round trip · Usually a day · Best Jul–Sep

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Black bear country · Permit or reservation needed · Bear canister required overnight · High altitude · Afternoon thunderstorms

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Calories and food for this trip

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This park doesn't publish the climb: add it for a better estimate.

An estimate from the US Army's Load Carriage Decision Aid (Looney et al., 2022), on trail, with half the walking up and half down this trail's average grade, plus your resting burn for the rest of the day. Cold, snow, a fast pace or a heavier pack mean more.

Distance from Inyo National Forest's page (park page), checked October 25, 2026. Trails change: check the park's page and conditions before you go. The Gear Fox isn't affiliated with the park.

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Quick answers

What should I bring for Mount Whitney?

The 10 essentials (navigation, headlamp + spare batteries, sun protection, first-aid kit (with blister care), knife or multi-tool + repair tape, fire, emergency shelter, extra food (a day's worth more than you plan), extra water + a way to treat it, extra layers), plus for this trail: hiking boots, wool hiking socks (+ a dry pair), day pack (20–30 l), trekking poles, insulated jacket (down or synthetic), warm hat + gloves, bear spray, start early; turn around by noon if storms build, permit or reservation.

Do I need a permit for Mount Whitney?

Usually, yes: Inyo National Forest manages permits or reservations for this area (dates, quotas or parking). Check its page for your dates before you go.

Are there bears on Mount Whitney?

Yes, black bears. Carry bear spray and store food away from your tent overnight.

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