Day 1- Meet your guides in Lone Pine, CA.  

We’ll begin our trip with a one night stay at the Best Western Hotel in Lone Pine, CA, with Mt. Whitney looming on the western horizon. Meet your guide and group for an orientation at 5 pm. Dinner is then on your own in town.

Day 2- Camp at Chicken Springs Lake.  

Grab breakfast at the Best Western or a local cafe down the street.  At 8am, we’ll caravan up to the pack station, about 45 minutes from town, and offload our gear for the mule train.  After that, we’ll lace up our boots and hit the trail! Our first night's camp is at Chicken Springs Lake. Though a short day, it’s a big one, as we climb 1300’ over Cottonwood Pass (11,140’). 

4 miles, Elevation: +1516' / -217' 

Day 3- Hike along the Pacific Crest Trail.  

Today we'll follow the famous Pacific Crest Trail through majestic Foxtail Pine forests, and on to the lower reaches of Rock Creek, where we’ll make camp and enjoy taking a dip in the creek.

9 miles +632'/ -2,128' 

Day 4- Hike to Guitar Lake.

Leaving camp, we’ll travel over Guyot Pass to Crabtree Meadows, where we will turn towards Mt. Whitney and steadily hike to Guitar Lake, where we’ll set up our camp and settle in early in preparation for our early start for our summit bid.

11 miles, Elevation: +2,985'/ -1,826' 

Day 5- Summit Mt. Whitney (14,505 ft.).  

We’ll make an alpine start, hitting the trail long before sunrise for our summit attempt of Mt. Whitney. After taking in the panoramic views from the highest point in the US outside of Alaska, we’ll make our way back to camp for a siesta. The day’s work is not over as we pack up camp and hike a few miles back to Crabtree Meadows. After a celebration supper, we’ll enjoy a memorable sunset over Mt Russell and enjoy a much needed rest after a big day.

15 miles, Elevation: +4,118'/ -4,475' 

Day 6- Hike to Rock Creek Lake.

Waking with a sense of accomplishment, we’ll begin our hike back southward through Sequoia- King’s National Park. An alternate route than how we arrived will see us to the headwaters of Rock Creek near Soldier Meadow.  10.5 miles, Elevation: +1,926'/ -1947' 

Day 7- Exit the backcountry via Cottonwood Trailhead.  

Packing up camp one last time, we’ll exit the High Sierra back via Cottonwood Pass, which will have us back to our vehicles at the trailhead in the early afternoon.  

10 miles, Elevation: +1,602'/ -1,192'

• Expert AWE wilderness guides

• Pack animals and experienced wranglers

• Required permits and logistics coordination

Accommodations 

• 1st night's stay at the Best Western Hotel in Lone Pine, CA 

• 5 nights of wilderness tent camping

Food 

• Starting with lunch on Day 2 and ending with lunch on Day 7 

• Gourmet backcountry meals including trail snacks  

Gear 

• All group gear including stoves, cookware, water filters, chairs, group first aid kit, bathroom kit, etc.  

• Personal camping gear provided by request: Backpacks, sleeping bags, sleeping pads, and trekking poles.

❌Trip Insurance (strongly recommended) 

❌Recommended 10-20% gratuity for guide(s) and 3% for packers based on overall satisfaction of trip.

❌Transportation to and from trailhead

❌Personal clothing & footwear (a packing list will be emailed upon booking).

❌Dinner on the first night in Lone Pine

❌Airfare 

❌Evacuations

Unless you are willing to absorb the entire cost of your trip in the event of a cancellation or early exit, it is recommended that you obtain travel insurance to protect your investment. AWE is not liable for cancellation fees or costs pertaining to your changed or canceled flights, rentals, lodging, or other arrangements (travel insurance can cover those costs). We recommend you call and speak with agent(s) before purchasing.

Our recommendations (please do your own research to see what best suits your needs):

• Travel Guard- travelguard.com

• World Nomads- worldnomads.com

• ADD Cancel for Any Reason (CFAR) Coverage to your insurance plan – it’s highly recommended you add this to your policy. You often need to purchase this coverage within a short timeframe of making your reservation (typically 1-2 weeks).

• Full Payment: Due 60 days before trip departure

• Cancellation 60+ days before departure: 75% of deposit refunded or transferred to another trip in same season.

• Cancellation within 60-45 days of departure: 50% of trip cost refunded or transferred to another trip in same season.

• Cancel 45 days or less, non-refundable, non-transferable.

Cancellation policies are necessary for operating “tour-type” programs with high up-front costs and overhead. While AWE operates within industry standards and strives to be fair, there are many things are out of our control.  

By their nature, backcountry adventures are uncertain endeavors. Many factors can influence the arrival to, the running of, or the outcome of an AWE program. Therefore, AWE strongly suggests obtaining “cancel for any reason” travel insurance before embarking. Weather, route conditions, or your own abilities may create circumstances that make continuing an AWE program unsafe or unwise, and you and/or your party may have to exit early. No refunds are given if a program ends early due to weather or route conditions. If this occurs your guide will offer to spend your remaining time pursuing a different or more feasible route. There is no credit for any days that go unused.

Should AWE need to cancel due to unforeseen circumstances (government closures, etc), we will offer you the opportunity to change programs, reschedule, or refund without penalty.

Mt. Whitney Traverse Training Program:

Challenge Level: Advanced–Intermediate (pack-supported)

The Mt. Whitney Traverse is considered an advanced–intermediate challenge level trip. It is designed for hikers with a strong baseline level of fitness who are comfortable hiking 8–15 miles per day on steep, mountainous terrain over multiple consecutive days. While pack-supported travel significantly reduces the weight you carry, guests should arrive prepared for long days on trail, sustained elevation gain, technical footing, and high altitude, with elevations ranging from approximately 8,000 ft. to 14,505 ft.

This trip demands endurance, strength, and mental resilience, particularly due to prolonged climbs and time spent above 10,000 feet. Arriving well-conditioned will significantly enhance both comfort and safety at high altitude.

Minimum Fitness Expectations:

Before your trip, you should be able to:

• Hike 10–15 miles in a day on mountainous terrain

• Carry a 10–15 lb daypack comfortably for full-day hikes

• Complete 2–3 consecutive long hiking days without excessive fatigue

• Manage sustained uphill travel, steep descents, and uneven or rocky terrain

• Maintain steady pacing at altitude

Recommended 10–12 Week Training Plan

The best training for hiking is hiking. We recommend building toward a consistent schedule that closely mimics the physical demands of the Mt. Whitney Traverse, with a strong emphasis on elevation gain and endurance.

Weekly Structure:

Aim for 4 training sessions per week, including:

1–2 Short Hikes (Midweek)

• Distance: 4–7 miles

• Terrain: Rolling hills, local trails, stair climbs, or incline treadmill

• Focus: Cardiovascular fitness, climbing strength, and pacing

• Pack: Start light and gradually increase to 10–15 lbs

1 Long Hike (Weekend)

• Distance: Build from 8 miles up to 12–16 miles

• Terrain: Steep, uneven, or rocky trails when possible

• Elevation Gain: Progressively increase elevation gain over time

• Pack: Daypack with water, layers, food, and trekking poles

Back-to-Back Hikes (Strongly Recommended)

Every 2–3 weeks, include two consecutive hiking days to prepare for sustained effort on the traverse.

• Day 1: Longer mileage or higher elevation gain

• Day 2: Moderate mileage while hiking on fatigued legs

Strength & Conditioning (1–2x per week)

Strength training is highly recommended to support long climbs and descents and reduce injury risk.

Focus on:

• Squats and lunges

• Step-ups (weighted if possible)

• Deadlifts or hip hinge movements

• Core strength (planks, side planks, balance work)

• Ankle, knee, and hip stability exercises

Elevation & Terrain Considerations

Whenever possible:

• Train on uneven and rocky terrain

• Prioritize elevation gain over flat mileage

• Practice steady pacing and rest-step techniques

• If you live at low elevation, arrive well-rested and hydrated to support acclimatization

Footwear & Gear Prep

• Train in the same footwear you plan to use on the trip

• Fully break in boots or trail shoes well in advance

• Practice hiking with trekking poles, especially on steep climbs and descents

• Test layers and sun protection suitable for alpine environments

Rest, Recovery & Mindset:

Rest days are essential for adaptation and injury prevention. Listen to your body, allow recovery, and fuel properly throughout training. A positive mindset, patience with altitude, and flexibility in changing mountain conditions are just as important as physical preparation.

*If you have questions about fitness readiness, altitude concerns, or gear selection, we encourage you to reach out before booking. We’re happy to help you prepare and ensure the Mt. Whitney Traverse is a strong and rewarding fit.

Pack-Supported Trip Gear List

Pack-supported travel allows you to hike light while essential overnight gear is transported by pack animals. Guests carry only a comfortable daypack during the hiking day. Please review the list below carefully and reach out with any questions.

What AWE Provides

• Experienced wilderness guides

• Group cooking gear & camp kitchen

• All meals & snacks (unless otherwise noted)

• Pack animals & wranglers to transport group and personal gear

• Group first aid & emergency communication devices

• Bear-resistant food storage

• Tents, Backpacks, Sleeping bags, Sleeping pads, trekking poles can be provided on request.

What You Carry Each Day (Daypack: 10–15 lbs)

• Comfortable daypack (20–30L recommended)

• 2–3 liters of water capacity (bottles or hydration bladder)

• Hiking snacks (provided by AWE, carried by you)

• Rain jacket

• Insulating layer (fleece or lightweight puffy)

• Sun protection: hat, sunglasses, sunscreen

• Personal items (camera, phone, medications, etc.)

Required Personal Gear

Clothing

• Hiking boots or trail shoes (well broken-in)

• 2–3 pairs hiking socks

• Hiking pants and shorts

• Long-sleeve sun shirt or lightweight layer

• Warm insulated jacket (down or synthetic)

• Rain jacket/ Rain pants (waterproof, not just water-resistant)

• Sleepwear (warm base layer recommended)

• Camp shoes or sandals

• Swimwear

Sleep System

• Sleeping bag (rated to 20–30°F unless otherwise specified)

• Sleeping pad (self- inflatable)

Personal Items

• Headlamp or flashlight (with fresh batteries and/or charge)

• Toiletries & personal hygiene items

• Small personal first-aid items & medications

• Sunscreen & lip balm (SPF)

• Insect repellent

• Trekking poles (recommended, optional)

• Lightweight gloves & beanie

• Buff or neck gaiter

Optional but Recommended

• Lightweight camp towel

• Fly fishing rod

• Journal or book

• Camera or binoculars

• Power bank to charge electronics.

Duffel Bag Requirement

All overnight gear must fit into one soft-sided duffel bag (no hard suitcases).

• Max weight: Typically 15-20 lbs (this only includes personal clothing/toiletries/small items). Tents, sleeping bags, sleeping pads, are not included in this weight.

This allows safe and efficient loading on pack animals.

What Not to Bring

• Hard-sided luggage

• Excessive valuables

• Drones (restricted in wilderness & national parks)

Questions About Gear?

We’re happy to help. Gear recommendations, requests, and packing guidance are available upon request. Our goal is to help you arrive prepared, comfortable, and ready to enjoy the experience.

What does “pack-supported” mean?

Pack-supported trips use experienced pack animals and wranglers to carry the bulk of group gear and personal duffels. Guests hike with only a light daypack, allowing for greater comfort and more enjoyment overall.

How challenging is the Mt. Whitney Ascent?

This trip is rated as Advanced-Intermediate. Daily mileage and elevation gain vary from 4-15 miles and +4,500 ft. Summitting Mt. Whitney is a true test of endurance and ability to hike at high elevations. A good level of fitness preparation and a positive attitude go a long way.

Is this trip right for you?

This trip is a great fit if you:

• Are comfortable hiking 4–15 miles per day on steep, mountainous terrain

• Can handle sustained elevation gain and long descents on uneven or rocky trails

• Have experience hiking at altitude or are prepared to manage the challenges of time spent above 10,000 ft.

• Can maintain a steady pace for full days on trail while carrying a 10–15 lb daypack

• Enjoy physically demanding days and feel confident hiking for multiple consecutive days

This trip may not be the best fit if you:

• Prefer shorter hiking days or flatter terrain

• Are new to mountain hiking or have limited experience with elevation gain

• Are unsure about hiking long days at high altitude

• Are not able to commit to pre-trip training

Pack-supported travel reduces the weight you carry, but it does not reduce the physical demands of the terrain or elevation. Guests who arrive well-trained and prepared will have the most enjoyable experience.

Are permits included?

Yes. All required wilderness permits and land-use authorizations are handled by Rock Creek Pack Station for this trip.

What if I have dietary restrictions?

No problem, your guides can adjust the menu to accommodate any dietary restrictions/ preferences. Be sure to note them down on the pre-trip Health questionnaire that will be sent via email upon booking.

How do we handle gratuities for our guides & packers? 

Your guides work very hard to provide an exemplary trip experience for you, and it is customary to give  them a gratuity based on your overall experience on the trip. Tips are shared between your guides. 10-20% of your trip cost is  recommended and cash or venmo is preferred (there is an ATM at the Wyndham if needed). 

It is also customary to tip the packer(s). A tip of 3% of your trip cost is recommended, tips can be given  directly to the packer on the last day at the trailhead (cash is preferred).

How do I book?

You can reserve your spot directly through our website. You can start the process by clicking the Registration button below. If you have questions before booking, feel free to reach out — we’re happy to connect.

What if I need to cancel?

Please refer to our Terms of Service policy on the website. We strongly recommend purchasing travel insurance to protect your investment.

There is a 5 person minimum requirement for this trip to run.

If a trip does not reach the minimum number of guests, you may choose to transfer to another trip, be refunded your payments in full, or you may have the choice to pay a supplemental fee to run the trip with fewer guests.

We make the final determination for these trips 4-5 weeks before the departure date, and notify guests of changes and options immediately