Guess what?

Back to the west, but this time I am flying instead of driving 4000+ miles.

The trip out west will take me to the highest spot in the lower 48 states and to the lowest spot in the United States. All of this within a matter of days.

A lot of driving took place last year and I really did not feel like driving that much this time around. Hopefully the flight option will make life a little easier and allow for some down time by the pool and the beaches of southern California.

I will hike Mt. Whitney - 14,505ft - which is the highest mountain in the lower 48 states. It will be a two day trek with a 22 mile round trip. I hope I can avoid the bears and the fires. I finally obtained a permit after trying for several years. The US Forest Service limits the number of people on the mountain. It isn't a hard hike, but it is a very long one. I do plan to camp at the Trail Camp around 12,000ft.

I will then make my way to Death Valley to visit the lowest spot in the USA. Before anyone asks - I will not be hiking from Mt. Whitney to Death Valley. I am a little too old for that. I believe it has been done though.

From there I do not really know where I will go. I believe I will see some of the sites in and around Death Valley.

I will make my way back to the Los Angeles area for a shower and some relaxation. I have been to LA a few times, but only as a day trip coming out from Palm Springs. Maybe I will stay and get into acting? Nah...