woodsander - About four switchbacks below where the JMT joins the MMWT, there is a good spot to pitch a couple of tents. The downside to sleeping here is that you are totally exposed to the winds at 13,500 feet, so it could get quite cool at night. Plus, you will have to carry all the water you will need for the night as you pass Guitar Lake, plus enough water to get you to the summit, then down to Trail Camp the next day. As suggested, why not spend the night at Guitar Lake, as there are several areas to pitch a tent that offer protection from the winds. You'll also have a readily available source of water. Or the tairn that is not too far above Guitar Lake.
Two years ago, coming from Horseshoe Meadows, I spent my third night at Guitar Lake, and my fourth night atop Whitney. The sunset and sunrise were awesome. But when I left Guitar Lake, I have seven quarts (15+ pounds) of water with me. I pitched my tent at one of the rock windbreaks behind the cabin. Even in August, the nighttime temps dropped to the low 20's. What an experience to sleep at 14,500 feet.
Whitney Mike
Last edited by Whitney Mike; 07/04/09 04:22 AM.
