I'm putting together a small team to climb Mt. Whitney, via the "Mountaineer's Route" (pioneered by John Muir in 1873).

Unlike the more popular Whitney Trail (with its infamous 97 switchbacks), this will be a climb, not a hike. By mountaineering standards, it's considered a Class 2+/3 "scramble"...meaning, no ropes or belays are required. But the route is challenging, with some of the hardest bits near the summit, so this adventure should not be undertaken lightly.

Update - 3/7/10: after discussion with those interested, I've decided on Friday, Sept. 10th as our trailhead entry date. I will be securing 6 permits for that date on March 10th.

We'll attempt to summit sometime on the 11th or 12th. This date will take advantage of fall weather (and fall colors) in the high country, and allow a tie-in with Labor Day (on Monday, the 6th). We may also climb nearby Mt. Russell (another 14'er), and soak in nearby hot springs.

Training climbs/scrambles will include Mt. Shasta, Shastina, Lassen-to-Brokeoff, and a section of the Sierra High Route.