Mount Whitney
via Wikipedia: List of mountain peaks by prominence · see source
The mountain is the tallest in the United States outside of Alaska and ranks 18th by topographic isolation and 81st by prominence on Earth.
- Location
- East–Central California, along the border of Inyo and Tulare counties
- Highest Point In
- Contiguous United States
- Named After
- Josiah Whitney, state geologist of California
- Native Name
- Tumanguya (Paiute)
Lore & Background
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Reader's Guide
The peak's alpine climate supports few plants, such as sky pilot, and transient animals like the butterfly Parnassius phoebus and the gray-crowned rosy finch.
Did You Know?
- The Paiute name for Mount Whitney is Tumanguya, meaning 'the very old man.'
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Mount Whitney?
Mount Whitney is a peak in California's Sierra Nevada range that holds the distinction of being the tallest mountain in the contiguous United States. It sits along the boundary between Inyo and Tulare counties in East-Central California.
Who was Mount Whitney named after?
The peak was named in honor of Josiah Whitney, who served as California's state geologist. The local Paiute people call it Tumanguya.
Why is Mount Whitney significant?
Beyond being the highest peak in the contiguous U.S., its summit marks the southern terminus of the John Muir Trail. The mountain's western face lies within Sequoia National Park, making it a major destination for hikers and mountaineers.
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