[cross-posted on Mt Whitney Portal Store message board]
I will be making my second Mt Whitney day hike (Main Trail) next Mon, July 26. Last year I was with a slower group and we did it in 16 hours total hike time. This year I wanted to try again, doing something at my regular pace. I had someone with a similar pace who won't be able to join me so I'm looking for some somewhat last-minute company on the trail.
This year, barring weather problems or unexpected altitude issues, I'm aiming for a total time of 12-13 hours. Some of my recent hike times include the following:
- San Gorgonio, Vivian Creek Trail, 17 miles - 9 hr 45 min
- Bear Canyon to 3Ts, Mt Baldy / Icehouse Canyon area, 19.5 miles - 9 hr 30 min
- San Jacinto, Devils Slide/PCT, 16 miles - 7 hr 45 min
- Mt Baldy, Ski Hut and Devil's Backbone Trail loop, 10.5 miles - 5 hours
I share these times not because I'm trying to race to the top of Mt Whitney. I definitely want to enjoy the views, take photos, and, hopefully, bask in pride at the summit! Rather I have found it's best to hike with someone at a similar pace, if possible. Compared to most women, I keep a pretty fast pace, esp. on the uphill (downhill I'm average at best- my poor knees slow me down). I can keep pace with a lot of guys too, but not a 3 mph uphill pace!
I'm not looking for someone to stay "joined at the hip" throughout the hike, but was hoping I might find some company and someone to share some time on the trail with. If I need to do it solo, that's fine too.
I have campsite at the Whitney Portal campsite for Sat and Sun nights that I'm sharing with several other people also doing the Monday hike (but likely a slower pace), and am happy to extend an invite to stay there to whomever's hiking with me. Welcome to join my group for our easier acclimatizing hikes too, but not necessary. As far the the Whitney hike I would probably start the hike around 2:30am in the wee hours of Monday morning.
Interested? Send me a message!
Laura
