West of Lone Pine (13 mi.) in the Eastern Sierra, Whitney Portal is a heavily wooded canyon flanked by granite cliffs. Its trail leads up the steep eastern escarpment to Mt. Whitney, the tallest peak in the lower 48 states.
The best color is found along Lone Pine Creek. Aspen, alder, black cottonwood, mountain and Rocky Mountain maple, willow and creek dogwood provide yellow, gold, pink, orange and red color.
- Whitney Portal (8,374′) – Near Peak (50 – 75%), Go Now!
