Driving the scenic Whitney Portal Road in the Sierra Nevada
Usa, north-america
19.31 km
2,557 m
hard
Year-round
Craving a quick, stunning escape? Cruise up Whitney Portal Road, a 12-mile paved gem tucked away in Inyo County, California. This route takes you nearly halfway up Mount Whitney, the highest peak in the lower 48 states!
Starting near Lone Pine, this road climbs into the Sierra Nevada, usually open from May to November (weather permitting, of course). The road isn't gated, but conditions can change fast, so check ahead!
In just 25-35 minutes (without stops – but why wouldn’t you?!), you'll ascend to 8,389 feet at Whitney Portal, with a breathtaking view of Mount Whitney.
Built in 1936, this road offers panoramic views as it winds through the surreal landscape of the Alabama Hills, a backdrop for countless western movies. It even stars in "The Long, Long Trailer" and "High Sierra"!
Be warned: this route is narrow, steep (up to 14%!), and winding, with switchbacks and potential rock slides. But trust me, it's worth it. The climb is tough, especially in the second half, averaging a 9% grade, but the views are incredible. Think Col de la Madeleine, but with a touch of California sunshine. As you ascend, the mountains loom larger, until you're enveloped in their majesty. This road is an adventure!
Where is it?
Driving the scenic Whitney Portal Road in the Sierra Nevada is located in Usa (north-america). Coordinates: 40.5695, -100.2984
Road Details
- Country
- Usa
- Continent
- north-america
- Length
- 19.31 km
- Max Elevation
- 2,557 m
- Difficulty
- hard
- Coordinates
- 40.5695, -100.2984
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