If you’re even beginning to think about attempting to climb Mount Whitney — the tallest peak in the Lower 48 — you may want to take some time out to head to one of Adventure 16’s free clinics this week.

Not only is there a ton of prep work you should be doing before you go (the main trail is 22 miles RT with an elevation gain of 6100 feet), but there’s also a complicated Forest Service lottery system that determines whether or not you’ll be able to spend more than 24 hours on the main trail (and … um, those WAG bags).

They’ll have permit applications on hand at stores this week, as well as Whitney expert Kurt Wedberg on hand to discuss gear and planning. And it’s free!

Oceanside Store: Mon., February 2, 7 p.m.
Solana Beach Store: Tues., February 3, 7 p.m.
San Diego Store: Wed., February 4, 7 p.m.
Costa Mesa Store: Thurs., February 5, 7 p.m.
West Los Angeles Store: Fri., February 6, 7 p.m.

There’s a second-part to the series at the end of March / beginning of April, which will tell you how you can still climb the mountain even if you didn’t get a Permit.

Image by lohit.

Tags: Adventure 16, advice, free clinic, mount whitney