In the summer of 2026, Friends of the Inyo and the Inyo National Forest are launching a new pilot stewardship program: the Mount Whitney Volunteer Corps. We’re recruiting a small group of experienced hikers to help keep Mt. Whitney cleaner and to share on-the-ground updates with USFS rangers during peak season.

What volunteers will do:

• Commit to 4 hikes during peak season, June – September. No summit required – the goal is ideally to reach Trail Camp on each visit.
• Enjoy the hike on the way up!
• On the descent, pack out trash (only what you can reasonably and safely carry)
• Share a brief conditions report after each trip with USFS rangers

Key perk: Volunteers will be registered as official USFS volunteers, which means you won’t need a permit to hike the mountain as part of this program. Volunteer trips are pre-planned and scheduled with the USFS.

Who we’re looking for:

• You’ve hiked Mt. Whitney before
• You have experience with independent travel and sound backcountry judgment
• You’re reliable, safety-minded, and excited to support stewardship in the Whitney Zone
• Desired but not required: Wilderness First Aid or Wilderness First Responder

Why this program? 

Mount Whitney sees 30,000 – 40,000 visitors each year, leading to serious trash and human waste impacts that pose environmental and public health concerns. With severely limited staffing, USFS rangers spend a disproportionate amount of time addressing these issues, reducing their capacity to focus on trail infrastructure, public education, and stewardship across the Mt. Whitney Ranger District. While Friends of the Inyo does host a Trail Ambassador on the Mt. Whitney Ranger District each summer to help fill this gap, even more help is needed! The Mount Whitney Volunteer Corps helps by placing trained volunteers on the trail during peak season, easing the burden on rangers. The program offers a meaningful opportunity for hikers shut out by the permit lottery to access Whitney, while giving back to the land.

Interested in applying? Email stewardship@friendsoftheinyo.org with your relevant experience and a short note on why you’re interested in joining the Mount Whitney Volunteer Corps.