Mt Whitney Zone Forums General Discussion Advice on UBSL and Iceberg Lake

We are heading up Oct 3/4th for a first attempt of Whitney via the Mountaineer's Route. I am hoping to shave a few ounces here and there, and was wondering if I can leave my tent stakes at home. By the look of the photos of UBSL and Iceberg Lake, it appears I would do better pitching my tent with medium sized rocks vs. traditional stakes. Any tips from the many veterans on here are greatly appreciated.

Leaving them at home would be wise. We used rocks at USBL for anchors - they are plentiful, and the ground is often no good for stakes. Make sure you have a decent way to attach them to your tent/fly - large loops or extra cord.

You're coming a long way for such a late summer / autumn trip. Just BE SURE to watch the weather forecast for any incoming storms. (Weather links are in the box on the left.)

Hey, I was just in your neck of the woods a few hours ago. I second the two dudes above; leave the stakes at home and watch out for the weather. It's going to be erratic really soon, and the MR would not be fun with a slippery thin layer of snow and ice.

Thanks to all for the advice. I know it's a late trip and I hope we can do it without problems. We all have discussed the possibility that we may have to turn back if the forecast isn't great. Snow is of course a possiblity by October.

If you're serious about saving weight, do it as a day hike.