Mt Whitney Zone Forums General Discussion M.R., a few questions.

I am new to the site and have a few questions about the Mountaineers Route. My climbing buddy and I drew a permit for Aug.

Q1: Which is a better option for this route, tarp or free standing tent? I have read where the stakes don't work all that well with the terrain. I prefer going lite.

Q2: NPS said bear containers are not a requirement on the MR yet I have read where it is. ???

more to come.....

Thanks In advance,
B-Dub

Tents can always be tied off to big rocks. You might have to move a rock or two to get the right setup. Tying to rocks is a good idea anyway, since wind gusts can blow a free-standing tent away while you are out hiking.

Canisters: I don't think they are "required"; bears don't go up that way. But there are always little critters and marmots. They can rip into packs and tents. The canister gives you peace of mind.

You can see the Forest Service's map of bear canister requirements for the Whitney area here. The MR is not in the bear canister requirement area. Might want to at least bring an Ursack for the marmots....

Thank you.