Mt. Whitney Ascents

Climb California's highest peak with us.

Mountain cabin surrounded by snow-covered landscape.

Mt. Whitney Guided Climbs

Mt. Whitney is the highest mountain in the contiguous 48 states (14,505 ft., 4,421 m) and one of the most sought-after peaks in the United States. We climb Mt. Whitney by several routes throughout the year, and each trip offers a unique experience with its own set of mountaineering skills.

The Mountaineers Route

Mt. Whitney’s Mountaineers Route is a fun scramble during the summer and fall. The route is rated Class 3, meaning it requires the use of hands and feet, but no previous training or experience in rock climbing is required to climb this route with us. A rope is used for safety and security so climbers can focus on the route and enjoy the breathtaking setting.

During the winter and spring, this route turns into a glorious snow climb, requiring the use of an ice axe and crampons while being roped up. The spectacular setting and stunning views around the Sierra make this a true mountaineering classic and a magnificent way to climb Mt. Whitney. See our Snow Travel School and Mountaineering Skills Seminar offerings to learn and practice skills used on these climbs.

View photo galleries of a summer and winter climb!

Silhouettes of people celebrating on hilltop.
Mountain peak with moon in blue sky.

Rock Climbing Routes

Mt. Whitney’s East Face and East Buttress routes are two of the finest alpine climbs in the United States. Sierra Mountaineering International offers guided climbs on both of these classic routes. The rock is superb white Sierra granite. The difficulty rating is 5.7. The East Buttress is a bit more direct and sustained at the grade. The East Face covers a little more terrain and includes the classic pitches of the Fresh Air Traverse, Tower Traverse, and Grand Staircase. 

You can't go wrong with either route, and many people return to climb the route they didn’t choose on their first visit. See our Rock Climbing School offerings to learn skills used to climb technical routes on Mt. Whitney and many other Sierra Classics. View a photo gallery from a climb of Mt. Whitney’s East Face here. Read a blog post about a trip up both climbs here.

Join us for one of these climbs and learn why Mt. Whitney continues to be a favorite among our guides!

Mt. Whitney Guided Climbs

Snowy mountain peaks at sunset with tents.

Mt. Whitney Mountaineers Route

Climbers ascending rocky mountain with ropes.

Mt. Whitney Rock Climbs

Black and white gradient diagonal line.

Get Ready to Climb

Overwhelmed by logistics? We simplify the process so you can enjoy your climb.