Hiking/scrambling from Whitney Portal past lower then upper Boyscout lakes to the base of the East Buttress. Rock climbing route is 8 to 11 pitches of up to 5.7 rock climbing, placing gear and building anchors. Descent is 3rd class down The Mountaineers route on the north side of the mountain and back down to the lakes.

Activity Notes

This is a rock climb of the East Buttress of Mt. Whitney. The climb starts from camp at Iceberg Lake and goes to the summit. It is rated at 5.7 and is about 1000 feet long. Rock climbing at altitude is significantly harder than at sea level.   The plan is to start the climb from the Whitney portal and proceed up the North Fork of the Lone Pine stream. We will go all the way to Iceberg Lake at 12,621 feet. Sleep and begin the climb early. The descent will be via the Mountaineers route.
Other Information
Driving Distance from Portland 600 miles
Driving Time from Portland 14 hours
Expected Duration Car to car in two or more days
Relevant Books Steve Roper The Climber's Guide to the High Sierra, 1976 Sierra Club Books. ISBN 0-87156-147-6 (A brief route description and window into the mindset of early Sierra climbers) R.J. Secor The High Sierra: Peaks, Passes and Trails, 1999 The Mountaineers.
Relevant Maps recreation.gov website for requesting permits
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