Every August Russ and I go road-tripping in California. Last year was a week-long backpack trip in the Sierras. This year we had our hearts set on a surfing junket, but were shut down by poor waves throughout the southwest. Sooo.....since the waves sucked we steered the 'Ho westward from Las Vegas, across Death Valley, and, you guessed it, back to the Sierras!
Our thought was to climb the East Buttress of Whitney, and if not, have a fun time trying.
At Lone Pine we obtained a permit and headed up to Lower Boy Scout lake. Only 6,000 vertical feet to go!
Here's us ready to head out from Whitney Portal
Our awesome campsite at Lower Boy Scout lake
Full of beans at 6 AM....You can't keep a good dude down!
Hiking up the granite slabs toward the base of Mt. Whitney early in the morning. The small waterfalls and alpine surroundings make this a very special place
All racked up at the base of the East Buttress route. Having fun yet, Russ?
At the belay of the he first pitch. A great position. From here, we decided to bail to the Mountaineer's Route. It just wasn't in the cards for Russ that day....
After about 5 hours of hiking and climbing, we stood at the highest point of the lower 48. Congratulations, Russ!
At the top
Russ back at camp, completely cooked after a long day
Time for another Carl's Junior Six-Dollar Guacamole Burger!!!
