Mt Whitney Zone
Posted By: Avi Aug 1 Overnight Hike: what to wear - 06/10/18 06:36 PM
Hello,

Me and my buddy got permits for the overnight hike starting on Aug 1st.

It's our first time at Whitney and not entirely sure what to expect in terms of weather at that time of the year and what to wear.

This is what I have in mind for layering

1. Moisture wicking baselayer
2. Cotton shirt
3. Columbia Omni heat vest or puffy jacket
4. North Face water-resistant wind-breaker.

Is that sufficient or should I packing something else?

Would I need to pack any water-proof goretex jackets and pants?

Would appreciate any advice.

Thanks.

Avi
Posted By: G4u2 Re: Aug 1 Overnight Hike: what to wear - 06/10/18 09:54 PM
Avi,

I went last year on July 31st. Trail Camp overnight is pretty cold even at that time of the year, so I was glad I brought my 15F sleeping bag.

For the clothes, what you have on your list is good.I also brought a pair of rain pants. Thunderstorms are common at that time of the year, and you don't want to be soaked as the temperatures drop overnight.

Have a great time.
Posted By: Avi Re: Aug 1 Overnight Hike: what to wear - 06/11/18 06:06 PM
Thanks! Really looking forward to our trip.

I will have my 0 degree Kelty Cosmic down bag with me.

I will look into the waterproof pants.
Originally Posted By: Avi
Hello,
Would I need to pack any water-proof goretex jackets and pants?
Avi


I have been up there with rain for over 12 hrs. While this is not common, yes, you should take not just rain-resistant gear but rain-proof, top and bottom. Be prepared.

Add rain and wind and even at 50 F you can become hypothermic and/or dead. This was well-studied in wilderness medicine circles in the 1960s. There were studies of unprepared all-day hill-walkers in England who died in such "mild" weather.
Posted By: Jammer Re: Aug 1 Overnight Hike: what to wear - 06/20/18 07:23 PM
Your basic list is fine. This is the time of year we are typically on Whitney and, as you probably know, you may be faced with a very wide set of conditions. We've seen 80+ degrees to 20 degrees with some snow depending on year and elevation.

I personally don't do cotton, but having a short sleeve wicking layer, a long sleeved pull-over and a good puffy parka are my main pieces. I also pack long underwear for an extra layer in case of colder conditions than expected. I've used this extra layer a couple of times, so it's not crazy to include.

Biggest thing is to carefully check the forecast a day before you head onto the trail and make any last minute adjustments based on what you learn. And definitely take something that will keep you dry should the conditions require it. Good luck!!
Posted By: Delkan1066 Re: Aug 1 Overnight Hike: what to wear - 06/21/18 12:10 PM
Looking at that list, I might suggest you bring along something to wear on your bottom half.
Posted By: wbtravis Re: Aug 1 Overnight Hike: what to wear - 06/25/18 04:34 PM
There was this day in August when stood on the summit and the temperature, according to that little REI thermometer, was less the 10 F. Just saying.

Keep an eye on forecast at weather.gov for a while before you head up to Lone Pine.

Oh...that wasn't the only time I have experienced temperatures like that in the Sierra summer.
Posted By: Avi Re: Aug 1 Overnight Hike: what to wear - 07/02/18 04:10 PM
Hey Guys,

Thanks so much for the great advice. I think I am all geared up.

I got a Marmot puffy and the Goretex rain jacket.

For the rain pants: I have a North Face hyvent ski pant that I got a few years back. Would that be sufficient?

Thanks.

Avi
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