At 14,252 feet, White Mountain Peak is the third-highest summit in California. White Mountain Peak begins above 11,000 feet and follows an old research road to a broad summit overlooking the Sierra Nevada, Owens Valley, Nevada Basin and Range, and the Ancient Bristlecone Pine Forest.
While the route is technically straightforward, the combination of altitude, exposure, and nearly 15 miles of hiking above 11,000 feet makes White Mountain Peak a serious undertaking. For many hikers, it’s the perfect introduction to high-altitude peak bagging and an opportunity to stand atop one of California’s highest summits without technical climbing.
Trail Beta
| Town | Big Pine |
| Trailhead | Barcroft Gate |
| Route | White Mountain Road |
| Mileage | 14.5′ |
| Elevation Start | 11,680 Feet |
| Gain | 2,600 Feet |
| Summit | 14,252 Feet |
| Type | Out and Back |
| Difficulty | Challenging |
| Class | 1 |
| Water | None |
| Permit | Not Required |
| Pets | Yes, On Leash |
| Land Manager | Inyo National Forest |
Disclaimer: The information provided by AWE is for informational and educational purposes only and should not be considered professional outdoor, medical, safety, or navigation advice. Trail conditions, weather, road access, water availability, permit requirements, and other factors can change at any time. Always do your own research, check current conditions, carry appropriate gear, know your limits, and make decisions based on your experience and the conditions you encounter. Recreate responsibly, follow Leave No Trace principles, respect wildlife and cultural resources, and leave every place better than you found it.
