The Aiguilles - a series of 1,000' tall needles along the southern portion of the Whitney Massif (south of Pinnacle Ridge; between Trail Crest and Day Needle) - have been referred to as the "Chamonix of the Sierra." Aiguille Extra is the northernmost of these, and is also the largest and most monolithic tower. Three recorded routes exist on this 1,300' monster - the South Face IV 5.10c, East Face IV 5.10, and East Buttress V 5.10 A2. Rarely will you see any other climbers here, as permits are difficult to come by due to the hoards on the main Whitney Trail. A beautiful and pristine tarn marks the basecamp, and it's hard to believe you can feel so alone while the masses are just 1/4 mile away at Trail Camp.

Obtaining a permit for the main Whitney Trail is likely the crux of any excursion to Aiguille Extra, as you will be competing with everyone looking to summit the highest peak in the contiguous 48. If you do get one, hike up the Whitney Trail to Mirror Lake. Leave the trail and traverse around the lake to the steep drainage on it's west side. Hike up grassy slopes, steep slabs, and talus to get to a basecamp located at a tarn beneath the east face of the wall. This took us 4.5 hours with overnight gear. From the high camp, allow 15-30 minutes to the base.