Mid layer for Whitney climb

Hi Jeff:

I did the climb 2 Augusts ago, and will be hiking it again this coming August (8/20-23).

The early mornings can be pretty cold — low to mid 30's. For me, I wear three layers — base tee plus MontBell Thermawrap plus Driducks jacket — at the start of the day and 15 or 20 minutes into the hike. After that, the tee and shell jacket are all that's really needed — with the Thermawrap stashed inside my day pack as backup.

hi Jeff,
Things can change pretty quickly up on Whitney. If I were you, I'd bring it along just in case. Also, if you twisted an ankle or something else that slowed you down or immobilized you, you might find yourself up there after dark and then you would need it. Ditto a head insulating layer. My 2 cents.

Yes, I definitely plan to bring both a sun hat/visor, beanie, and gloves.

Thank you for the quick opinions. Sounds like the base layer, Thermawrap, and shell might be the way to go. If there are any other thoughts, please let me know.

As always, the collective experience and help of the BPL forums are always appreciated.

I found my Driducks jacket hood more than sufficient for maintaining head warmth. But reading Tom's post reminded me of the stretches in the shade with cold winds blowing… I was happy I brought along a pair of lightweight gloves — so my hands weren't exposed the whole time while using the trekking poles.

I agree with both Tom and Ben on their suggestions. Weather does change, as well as you just don't know how cold it can get in the morning. A great hike. The pic in my avatar is me at Trail Crest. Have fun!!!!

I was up there a few weeks ago (during much bad weather)…I went up from the backside (Guitar Lake) during intermittent light rain/snow (not enough to accumulate) in nothing but running shorts and a Marmot Ion hooded jacket, and that was at night- I started down from Trail Crest at around 7:45 pm and hiked out to the portal in the dark. The high areas were cold, but I stayed moving so it was never an issue. Light gloves would have been nice, but again, only up high. From Trail Camp down I did it all in a t-shirt.
The clothing you mentioned (base, thermawrap, and shell) should be more than adequate for anything you encounter.
Have fun up there….