OK, so this next destination is not so much “travel” as “adventure”. This is how I must view an attempt at climbing Mt. Whitney in one day if I am to endure the blisters, fatigue, discomfort, dehydration, exhaustion…wow, are you envious yet? haha! I am putting it out there for my readers to offer tips, warnings, encouragement (I hope!), and suggestions. I will even entertain a silly idea or two so long as it’s within reason and you’re not suggesting I haul an anvil to decorate the summit!
Mount Whitney Stats:
Elevation: 14,505 feet
Starting Elevation: 8,360 feet
Elevation Gain: 6,145 feet
Route: Mount Whitney Trail
Total Miles Round Trip: 22 miles
Craziness Level Required to Attempt This in One Day: 8.4
Common Pitfalls: Blisters, Joint Injuries, Lightening Strikes (true!) Falls, Altitude Sickness…
I keep hearing stories about how, even though they make it up, many people are sick the entire way down, due to the extremely fast elevation gain and loss. My question is: Must I pack out my….umm….sickness as well? lol Ugh! SO glamorous!
No one tells you the terrain is so lovely
Climbing may be hard, but it’s easier than growing up. Ed Sklar
I have wanted to climb this peak for a few years now. Mainly because, now that I’m embracing the joys of hiking, I figure it makes sense to tackle the highest peak on the contiguous United States, especially as it’s located in my home state of California. I joined my brother-in-law two years ago on his 1-day attempt, and I was pleased enough I made it to Summit Camp, around 12,000 feet up. He’s too much of a gent to leave me behind, and it was late in the day, so we both headed down. Never before have I wanted to try it in one day, as I’m just not that ambitious or into suffering. The coveted and highly limited pass to stay overnight on the trail, however, is just that: highly coveted and limited. So much so that there is a “lottery” you enter to garner one, and for a few years now, my friends and I have not been among the lucky winners.
I didn’t actually want coffee, but I poured myself a cup, just because the pot was there. I guess I’m a lot like George Mallory, who had similar motivation for climbing Mount Everest. Chuck Bonner
I still would not have wanted to endure the rigors of tackling this peak on a one-day trek if I maintained residence in my right mind, but a new development has prompted me to test my mental and physical mettle. I am joining a dynamic and diverse team of people who hail from many different countries to converge on a peak in the Himalayas for a good – make that a great – cause. As diverse as we may be, we seem to be bonded by several common themes: We are all Twitter users (some of us are abusers – ahem) , we all share a powerful drive to raise money and awareness for charity:water, and we are discovering that we all like a good laugh. This last will come in handy, I’m sure, when we are weeks into our grueling trek must resort to humor as frozen noses and ears start dropping off on the trail. Check out the fabulous members of the team and details for contributions here.
See that high crag? I think that's the peak. Mt Whitney
So, I welcome your input, encouragement, and even goading. Whatever it will take for me to succeed in this fool-hardy quest! Until just last week, my longest distance hike was 12 miles, and certainly not with such a climb. I’m making progress in my training, and I sincerely thank you for cheering me in my endeavors here and on Twitter. Happy trails!
If you’d like to read more about my hiking trails and trials, please open this door.
All Photos by G. Stark unless OF her
{ 9 comments… read them below or add one }
Gina, I believe I know you fairly well and I know that when you set your mind to accomplish something you do and you will. I also know that you'll take the proper precautions… right? 😉 The best tip I can give you is lots of water (even though its heavy) and sugary snacks. Drink extra water for a few days before the hike as well. As I'm sure you know, also start early in the morning so you allow time for breaks. And let the Forest Rangers know you are doing this too. Ok, I think I'm done sharing my concern disguised as tips 😉 Good luck!
Riiiiight….lol Hi Max! Thanks for the drop in – but next time, please call first so I can tidy up the place, sheesh! 😉 Sugary snacks? Happy to! lol Was focusing more on protein and carbs. We are required to have a permit and I'm lugging water but also purifying tablets so we can take advantage of the mountain streams and lakes up there. My blister is reducing, so that's good! …and I love that: "concern disguised as tips" Big huugggs and thanks, my friend! 🙂 Cheers and thanks again! xoxo G
I think that altitude sickness is considered a biodegradable product and would not have to be carried out. For your sake, I really do hope so!
I wish I could say I've got your back but as you know I'm in Minnesota and not a hiker. I do in this sense: You will continually be in my thoughts and prayers on this one, though I have every confidence you will do it, it never hurts to have a little help from on High! Your Forever Friend and Fan, Libby 🙂
Hi honee pie! 🙂 How lovely to see your comments gracing my blog. I know when it gets tough I will think of how many dear friends I have rooting for me, and I will push just that extra bit to do my bestest – 'tis all we can do, really! Thanks Libby Luv for your encouragement and awesome energy. Cheers and hugs! Gina
This is an exciting challenge! Even though I know you'll do great, you asked for advice, so here's my two cents:
Know exactly what foods work for you. We're all different, so if I tell you to eat homemade french fries for carbs and a bit of salt, or to bring Cliff Shot Blox for sugar and electrolytes, those may not work for you. You need to know what you can digest and enjoy under exertion, that still gives you the fuel you need. Electrolyte drops for your water are a great safe bet – no flavour, no colour, inexpensive and easy to pack, and an excellent assurance that your mineral levels won't get too depleted from sweating.
And don't forget the butterflies. I'll be sending some to help keep your spirits and energy up, and to protect you from harm; but you can visualize them any time. And I bet if you do, you'll smile. And therein lies their magic.
Hugs and butterflies,
~Teresa~
Hi Teresa! Is THAT where all those butterflies came from? 🙂 I saw them, swirling about me and inspiring me with their light, winged dance. Thank you so very much for sending them, and for your input. I was already on my trip up there, but I think your advice is sound and wise! I think I ate and drank the right amounts…my body really came through for me. The feet definitely suffer but there is not much to do for the demands we put on them! I have never really worked towards something so physically taxing and I'm feeling pretty dang good. Thank you so much for your energy and butterflies! xoxo G
Good luck Gina. Looks like a great hike. Water, hat and a lot of will-power…..
Hola Juan 😉 Thank you! I'm back and I did it and I'm still a bit stunned! lol I did have a hat, water (too much – heavy!!! lol) and more than will-power; enthusiasm. It's much harder than a mere 22-mile hike. Not only the altitude but the terrain challenge you. But I'm so glad I did it and came back down safely! Cheers! G
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