Mt. Whitney Portal Store & Hostel Forums General Mt. Whitney Portal Store Message Board Store Info

Hi there,

I'm new to the Mt. Whitney area etc, June 11 will be my first ascent. Can anyone tell me what exactly is available for rent at the Portal Store? Various friends have told me that Bear Vaults/Containers and possibly even trekking poles are available. Is there an issue with availablitiy in the busy summer months? Just trying to save a few dollars on equipment not normally required in the UK......sheep are not as menecing as bears!!!!!!!!!!

Also, will it be necessary to reserve a camp site at the portal for the 9/10 of June or are there plenty of free spots for permit holders?

Many thanks

Rupert

Reservations for campsites can be made at:

http://www.recreation.gov/campgroundDetails.do?subTabIndex=0&agency=nrrs&parkCode=whtp

They are going quickly so I would reserve right away.

I don't know about what's at the store. The campsites themselves have bear lockers that must be used for all food. I got what seems to be an OK adjustable trekking pole online (brand is Coleman). I got it from sportsauthority.com for $18 plus shipping but I don't know if they ship to UK.

Good luck.

You should reserve a spot, the campground can fill up fast. I believe they rent cannisters but i haven't heard of them/anyone renting poles.

p.s. You're right, sheep are much more enticing than menacing!

-lance

Hey!
Could someone please offer me some advice as to which campsites are good? I, along with my 10 year old son, plan on a one night only stay over, as we will hike up the following morning.
I've noticed that the reservation site only offers campsite numbers, but doesn'y offer a map to show general location as opposed to the surroudnig areas.
I appreciate any good info / suggestions someone can offer me.
Thank you,

Greg

See Determine if you need campsite reservations at Whitney Portal Campground and WP Campground in the Orientation Notes.

You may also prefer Horseshoe Meadow and Onion Valley since they are at higher elevations (better acclimation).

Also note what I posted under a parallel thread just now: Preferred Camp sites at Portal .