Mt Whitney Zone
Was unsuccessful in my bid for permits in late July / early August during the lottery. However, just saw two overnight permits for June 30th on the site and picked them up.

I have summitted in August before so I have a feeling of the weather in late summer. Any feedback on how the weather / snow-ice situation might be around June 30th would be greatly appreciated.

Barring any storms, snow/ice should be minimal by late May, never mind June. Weather could a toss-up, since it's been so crazy (it's almost 90deg here in Bishop today). Just keep checking NOAA and the weather links for updates as you get closer.

Only guarantee we have right now for this summer is a short-lived mosquito season.

-L
Hear the Moose: she speaketh wisely. Also keep in mind that you will be at altitude in the most intense sun of the year: right around the solstice. My last Whitney ascent was in late June, and I can tell you that the whole approach, particularly the switches, is one big solar oven that time of year. August has about the same sun exposure as April; nothing by comparison to late June.
Thanks for the feedback!

Was planning on getting an early start both mornings on the ascent (i.e. 1) portal to trail camp and 2) camp to summit). In your opinion, would that help mitigate the intensity of the sun? Last time, we summited with a day pass (and 230 AM start!) and were hoping for a more enjoyable trip up this time with a 2 night, 3 day hike.

Any other board members going on these dates?
I wouldn't worry so much about an early start, except for the first switchers out of the portal, which face east and catch a lot of sun no matter what. Better yet, plan on taking it slow and steady, lots of breaks in what shade does exist, good hats and/or bandanas that can be soaked and worn around the neck or head to promote cooling.

There are really two long stretches of exposed hiking: the switchers above the North Fork cutoff and the stretch headed above Mirror Lake. But, if you plan on nice breaks, where you focus on munching and drinking, it's not that bad.

I always enjoyed starting a bit early to enjoy sunrise from the high switchers, which I think gives the feel of actually being part of the Range of Light.


Moose - you mentioned Mosquito season. When is that usually and how bad are they? Are they up around Trail Camp at all?

I've been to certain part's of Yosemite / King's where they were really bad, but I don't recall any mosquitoes on my last trip to Whitney.
The skeeters will be around. I've been bitten at Whitney Portal in May.

I'd bring my 100% DEET.
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