Mount Whitney is the highest peak in the contiguous United States, located in the Sierra Nevada mountain range in eastern California. It stands at an elevation of 14,505 feet (4,421 meters) above sea level. The mountain is named after Josiah Whitney, the State Geologist of California from 1860 to 1874.
Mount Whitney is a popular destination for hikers, climbers, and outdoor enthusiasts, with several trails leading to the summit. The most popular trail is the Whitney Portal Trail, which starts at an elevation of 8,360 feet (2,548 meters) and is about 22 miles (35 km) round trip. The trail is considered strenuous and requires a permit to hike, which can be obtained through a lottery system.
The summit of Mount Whitney offers spectacular views of the surrounding Sierra Nevada range, including the highest peak in the contiguous United States, Mount Whitney's neighbor, Mount Williamson. The area around Mount Whitney is also home to a variety of wildlife, including marmots, bighorn sheep, and black bears. The mountain and its surrounding area are protected by the Inyo National Forest and the John Muir Wilderness.