Mt. Whitney is no easy feat and should be treated as such. It is unwise to attempt it without adequate training and/or being in good physical shape. It is not just a physical climb, it is a mental climb as well.
Outlined below is what I usually do to prepare for a successful summit of Whitney.
Get your hands on a permit
The 2022 season lottery is now closed but that doesn't mean there is zero chance you can send it. There are still walk up permits available and as the season goes on, permits will become available on Recreation.gov as people change their summer plans and cancel their trips.
Do not, and I repeat this, DO NOT go past the Whitney Zone without a permit. Not only can this result in a fine, it is not allowed. We want to respect the rules set in place so we can continue to visit these wonderful mountains.
Once you have gotten your hands on a permit— Training time!
When you arrive at Whitney, you want to be in good physical shape. This means good cardio and endurance.
In order to arrive ready to bag Whitney, it is recommended that you go on training hikes. Since you are essentially hiking uphill for 11 miles, I would suggest finding some hikes around you that are uphill. Go on hikes often, build up your lung capacity, and become comfortable and accustomed to long days of walking.
Acclimating
If you are not accustomed to high elevations, it is very very important to acclimate before heading for the summit. If you are not well acclimated, you may experience altitude sickness. Altitude sickness is a serious thing and if you try to ignore it, it can become life threatening.
My best advice when it comes to acclimating is to arrive at Whitney Portal several days before your summit date. Then in the days leading up to your summit, take a hike up to Lone Pine Lake. It is a relatively short hike and the lake is a lovely place to have lunch.
The night before
The time is approaching, nerves may be building but also excitement. If you are scared, don't do it. Never put yourself in a situation you do not feel comfortable in, especially in the outdoors. I have seen many people turn around, or not even leave camp in my years of hiking Whitney. It does not mean you are weak or not capable, it simply means you are listening to yourself and doing what is right for you.
The night before I usually carb up on pasta and other foods that will help fuel my hike. I would recommend not eating anything too hardy, as you want it to be able to digest and pass through prior to starting your hike.
This is also the time I start packing my pack. Sorting through food and snacks, trying to figure out how much I will need and what I will want to eat is key. Food is heavy so think before packing it. Of course, it is always better to have a little too much than not enough. This is also the time I fill up my water and make sure I have an extra water bag just in case (you do not want to be caught above Trail Crest without water, trust me it sucks).
Lastly, I make sure I have any extra clothing items ready to go as well. These may be gloves, jackets, hats, etc… If you do not plan to wear it in the morning, pack it the night before.
Summit Day!!!
When the day arrives, be prepared, it will be a long day. I usually wake up around 3am to get ready for a 4am departure from the trail head. It is important to eat some food before leaving camp. It may be hard to stuff the food down your throat due to the early hour and nerves, but it is necessary. You will need the nutrients.
Once everything is together it's time to get to the trailhead and go.
Coming Soon… Whitney Trail Walkthrough