After spending the previous six days backpacking in the Sierras, far above 10,000 feet elevation, Vicki and I decided that our bodies were acclimated enough to tackle White Mountain Peak, elevation 14,246 feet, the third highest peak in California. Except for the lack of oxygen, White Mountain Peak isn’t a particularly difficult climb, but the views sure are breathtaking!
It’s probably the easiest fourteener you can climb, as there is a 4WD road to the top. Some people mountain bike up (and down!) this mountain. The only real issues in climbing it is the 7 mile approach and the oxygen concentration at that elevation. Still, being able to view the entire eastern Sierra at one time makes this mountain truly memorable. Besides, it was my first (and only, thus far) fourteener!
Click on the photo to read the complete Trip Report
hikingtales.com 