Lone Pine Peak | The best views in the Eastern Sierras

Many people confuse Lone Pine Peak with the tallest peak in the 48 contiguous United States, Mt. Whitney. As one makes their way into the town of Lone Pine and gazes west, they see Lone Pine Peak. She stands like a giant compared to the other peaks on the crest! This is due to the viewer's vantage point and the fact that Lone Pine Peak is closer to the town of Lone Pine than Mt. Whitney. Lone Pine Peak stands tall at 12,920 feet, just shy of 13,000 feet and around 1,600 feet shorter than Mt. Whitney. Yet, Lone Pine Peak is still a popular peak to climb by many peak baggers and hiking enthusiasts alike. The hike is extremely brutal and there is exposure on the north chute making that route a hard, steep class 2. Class 3 routes will vary depending on the route they take in the chute. The reward on top of the summit is worth all the sweat. I believe it is one of the best views of the Eastern Sierras and Owens Valley out of any peaks on the eastern crest! The view of Mt. Whitney is priceless!

This was my 59th peak out of 100 of 2021.

Directions:
Take Whitney Portal Rd. west towards Whitney Portal. As you approach the portal, you will notice a sign that says "Meysen Lake Trailhead Parking". The sign is on the left of the road right as you reach Whitney Portal Campgrounds. Park your car on the side of the road. Follow the signs to the trailhead and begin your journey up the steep incline trail. You will pass some cabins before entering the John Muir Wilderness. Remain on the trail until you arrive at a sign pointing to Meysen Lake/ Grass Lake. Make your way to Grass Lake and stay on the east shoreline, passing over a creek and into a boulder field. This is where you will head up as you reach the North chute. Once up the chute take the obvious route to the summit.

Enjoy!

• #travel_events
• #lone_pine_peak
• #lone_pine
• #eastern_sierras
• #mt_whitney
• #whitney_portal
• #sierra_nevadas