Trailhead Location:
Take the paved road west to the Mt. Whitney Fish Hatchery (Oak Creek Rd.) which is 2 miles north of Independence off Hwy. 395. Pass the hatchery turnoff and take the right fork. The pavement ends at the campground after passing the north fork of Oak Creek. Continue on the dirt/gravel road for approximately 3 miles to the trail head.

Dates open:
Usually from late June through October, depending on the snow pack.

Type of camp:
Backpack 8.5 miles on a very strenuous trail. Highest elevation reached is 12,300 feet.

Permits:
Forest service wilderness permit. No campfires.

Comments:
Purify water, watch for bears and pack out all trash.