Mt Whitney Zone Forums General Discussion High Sierra Trail start date

So, one of my backpacking trips this year may be the High Sierra Trail from Sequoia NP to Whitney (and either turn around and go back or exit via Whitney Portal).

Assuming we have a average snow year, what start dates from Crescent Meadow would normally be best?

I'm thinking 5 days West to East and 8-9 if I do the return trip.

Any alternate return trails that people would recommend?

Any other advice?

Sorry to add a question onto your question, but when you get the HST permit, it's an automatic "exit Whitney portal" option with no additional work needed to secure, correct?

And speaking of snow year, though I know we need the water it's sure looking below average in the Southern Sierra right now. Who knows what Feb/March may bring but after what 2022/2023 did to the area, this is a welcome sight. Just 65 days remain of winter...

I believe a Portal exit is fine if you get the High Sierra Trail entry permit.

Yes, they have this available as an exit point: Mt. Whitney (Trail Crest Exit)

I am looking at doing the same. Ideally I want to go in August or September. So far I have a "backup" permit for early July. I know that is iffy given the snow in some spots, but so far this winter has been really dry, so maybe it will be possible.

Jim, the limiting factor is the ravine above Hamilton Lake at the tunnel -- In heavy snow years, you might need ice axe and crampons to cross the residual steep snow there. So far this winter is turning out to be a bust, so you might get through pretty early.