Backpacking Mount Whitney – Preparation Lecture with We Explore Earth

Ready to take on Mount Whitney?

Join We Explore Earth for a special educational session focused on what it truly takes to summit the tallest mountain in the contiguous United States.

This talk will be led by We Explore Earth founder William Vazquez, an experienced hiker and community outdoor leader who has completed major California peaks and guided countless hikers through safe, rewarding outdoor experiences.

Whether you’re planning your first Whitney attempt or simply curious about the process, this lecture will give you confidence, clarity, and the tools you need.

What We’ll Cover:

🔸 Permits:

How the Mount Whitney permit lottery works, how to increase your chances, and what to expect day-of.

🔸 Training & Conditioning:

How to physically prepare for altitude, endurance, and long-distance elevation gain.

🔸 Gear & Packing List:

Essential items, safety must-haves, recommended clothing, and smart ultralight tips.

🔸 Route Overview:

The main route, what the terrain is like, time breakdowns, and what to expect mile-by-mile.

🔸 Altitude & Safety:

Understanding altitude sickness, how to prevent it, responsible pacing, and emergency awareness.

🔸 Weather & Timing:

Best season windows, start times, summit strategy, and how to plan for weather shifts.

🔸 Leave No Trace & Mountain Ethics:

How to protect the land while enjoying one of California’s most iconic peaks.

Who This Is For:

• First-time Mount Whitney hikers

• Anyone planning a 2026 Whitney attempt

• Outdoor lovers wanting to learn more about high-altitude adventures

• All experience levels are welcome

This lecture is free and open to the public.

No affiliation with or sponsorship by any agency.

RSVP Required:

Please RSVP directly through the REI event page:

👉 Link in our Instagram bio

or

(PLEASE RSVP VIA THIS WEBSITE: 👉 Copy/paste the link here:

https://www.rei.com/events/mtwt/californias-crown-jewel-backpacking-mount-whitney

📍 Date & Location:

Date: Dec 5th,2025

Time: 6-7pm

Location: 24271 Avenida de la Carlota

Laguna Hills, CA 92653

United States

Join us, learn, get inspired, and get ready for your next big summit.

Let’s prepare together and climb responsibly.