North America 2024

June is a fantastic month for mountaineering. While many Northern Hemisphere peaks are still covered in snow, the Intermountain West offers an ideal window to climb ultra-prominent summits. To make the most of this opportunity, I’m booking an affordable Lufthansa flight from Vilnius to Los Angeles. My goal is to ascend several of these impressive peaks. If the snow conditions are unfavorable, I’ll pivot to bagging Ribu peaks as a backup plan. It’s a solid strategy with great prospects.

Day 1: All Roads Lead to Frankfurt

Early morning flights from Vilnius to Frankfurt have become the norm, so my 6 AM departure on LH889 was no surprise. After a quick taxi ride, I checked in my luggage, grabbed a coffee, and boarded. Two hours later, I was relaxing in the comfort of Lufthansa’s Frankfurt business lounge, a perk of my Miles & More membership. While I appreciate the lounge access, I’m skeptical about the airline’s mileage accrual system.

A window seat was essential for two reasons: sleep and sightseeing. While drifting off to the rhythm of the engines, I also enjoyed scanning the passing landscape for mountain ranges and other landmarks. The real highlight came when the plane soared over Utah, Nevada, and California, offering a breathtaking aerial perspective.

A few hours later, I boarded the eleven-hour LH456 flight to Los Angeles. The plane was pleasantly half-full, allowing ample space to relax. Affordable in-flight Wi-Fi helped pass the time, and I managed to book a rental car online. After navigating immigration and baggage claim, I quickly obtained my car rental keys. Unfortunately, the rental agent’s outdated system caused a frustrating twenty-minute delay as they manually entered my out-of-state address. A clear reminder of the need for better software testing!

The car rental gods smiled on me; I landed a Jeep Compass Trailhawk. Its ample ground clearance was essential for navigating the challenging mountain roads ahead. The spacious interior, complete with foldable back seats, transformed the vehicle into a comfortable mobile basecamp. Disappointingly, time constraints forced me to abandon my plan to summit Piute Peak that afternoon.

Leaving behind the familiar urban sprawl of Los Angeles, I ventured into the heart of California’s diverse landscapes. Passing through the affluent neighborhoods of Beverly Hills and the bustling cities of San Fernando, Palmdale, and Lancaster, I eventually arrived at the stark beauty of the Mojave Desert edge. The surreal sight of an expansive airplane graveyard near Mojave town served as a stark reminder of aviation’s history and obsolescence. From aluminum to aluminum!

My journey concluded for the day at the Ridgecrest motel, a rather underwhelming establishment despite its grandiose name. Basic accommodations and questionable cleanliness left something to be desired. However, the anticipation of tomorrow’s hike to Telescope Peak helped to overshadow the shortcomings of my lodging.

Frankfurt to Los Angeles

Costs, logistics…

• Bolt taxi to Vilnius airport: 5.40 EUR
• Charlie Pizza coffee at the airport: 3.50 EUR
• Lufthansa flight tickets (Vilnius -> Frankfurt -> Los Angeles -> Frankfurt -> Vilnius): 931.75 EUR
• Lufthansa on board WiFi provided by T-Mobile: 9 EUR
• SIXT car rental at LAX Airport: 595.74 USD (557.18 EUR)
• Maya mobile eSIM card (USA 5GB 15 days): 10 EUR
• Groceries at Stater Bros at Ridgecrest: 19.69 USD (18.53 EUR)
• Dinner at McDonald’s at Rasamond: 14.81 USD (13.86 EUR)
• Econo Lodge Inn & Suites near China Lake Naval Station, including what they call ‘breakfast’—a tasteless cup of coffee and a dry muffin in a plastic bag: 80.91 EUR

Day 2: As Far as the Telescope Can See

With Telescope Peak as my target, I hit the road early, eager to tackle the over-hundred-kilometer drive. The route took me through the desolate beauty of the Mojave Desert, passing the oddly named Industrial Waste Ponds near the small towns of Argus and Trona. A misguided attempt to shorten the journey via Trona-Wildrose Road added an unexpected detour, extending my drive by another hundred kilometers.

The heat of the day was a formidable opponent as I ascended Telescope Peak, but the summit offered breathtaking panoramic views that made the effort worthwhile. The descent was followed by a drive through the Eastern Sierra, a region of stunning contrast. I passed through the charming towns of Panamint Springs, Lone Pine, and Big Pine before reaching the larger community of Bishop. After a quick refueling and a bite to eat, I continued north, the majestic silhouette of the Sierra Nevada mountains providing a constant backdrop. As daylight began to fade, I found a secluded spot near Walker village to camp for the night.

Telescope Peak

Costs, logistics…

• Fuel at Panamint Springs Gas Station: 50.00 USD (46.72 EUR)
• Fuel at Shell at Bishop: 55.46 USD (52.05 EUR)
• Dinner at McDonald’s at Bishop: 16.62 USD (15.60 EUR)

Day 3: Volcano Surprise

I started my day with a drive towards Lassen Peak, passing through Topaz Lake, Gardnerville, Carson City, Washoe Lake, Reno, and Susanville before reaching the scenic Lassen National Forest. Despite needing only a day pass, I had to purchase a seven-day permit. It seems like a way for the park to earn more money and encourage longer visits.

I climbed Lassen Peak and then drove towards Mount Eddy. Passing through the town of Mineral, I turned right onto Paynes Creek Road. The drive was a delight, with rolling farmlands and trees that looked like oak but could possibly be cork varieties.

The day ended on a disastrous note at the Red Lion Suites in Redding. This motel was the absolute worst of my trip. Misleading online reviews boasted a three-star rating, a gross exaggeration; I’d generously give it half a star. The receptionist’s dismissive attitude towards my complaints about cleanliness and the motel’s false advertising was infuriating. To make matters worse, the hotel name provided on the booking platform was completely different. My subsequent refund request was ignored. It’s disheartening to encounter such blatant dishonesty and incompetence in the hospitality industry.

Lassen Peak

Costs, logistics…

• Lassen Volcanic National Park 7 day entrace ticket: 30 USD (28.16 EUR). This is chepaest ticket i could buy.
• Fuel at Susaville Beacon: 48.68 USD (45.69 EUR)
• Grossery at Susaville: 17.35 USD (16.28 EUR)
• Dinner at Panda Express at Redding: 12.44 USD (11.67 EUR)
• Guestplace Inn & Suite, real hotel name is Red Lion Inn: 65.50 USD (60.54 EUR). Place to be avoided.

Day 4: Lakes and Little Snow

I headed towards Shasta Lake, passing through Mount Shasta City and turning west at Weed before reaching the trailhead. After climbing Mount Eddy, I returned east, passing through Mount Shasta City again, then McCloud. Continuing north, I bypassed Lassen National Forest and rejoined my previous route at Susanville.

In Reno, luck was on my side. I snagged a stunning, four-star room at the J Resort for a mere $60. The catch? It’s a casino hotel, a test of willpower or fortune. For dinner, I ventured to the Golden Flower Vietnamese restaurant, only to discover a menu completely devoid of Vietnamese dishes. Still, it was a decent option by local standards.

Mount Eddy

Costs, logistics…

• Breakfast at McDonalds at Weed: 12.79 USD (12.00 EUR)
• Grossery store at McCloud: 7.48 USD (7.02 EUR)
• Fuel at McCloud: 24.26 USD (22.76 EUR)
• Dinner at Golden Flower Vietname at Reno: 22 USD (20.65 EUR)
• J Resort at Reno: 65.70 USD (61.63 EUR). Very comfortable place for reasonable price.

Day 5: Two Complimentary Ribu

Staying in a casino hotel was a novel experience. The room was surprisingly comfortable and the price unbeatable. Enjoying the unexpected luxury, I decided to extend my stay, combining leisurely hikes with evening work. With a room booked for another night, I started the day with a simple breakfast before heading south to tackle Mount Rose. Later, I ventured northeast to bag Virginia Peak, capping off a relaxed day with another reasonabke meal at the same Vietnamese restaurant without Vietnamese food.

Mount Rose

Costs, logistics…

• Breakfast at McDonalds at Reno: 9.70 USD (9.08 EUR)
• Grossery store at Maverick at Reno: 2.49 USD (2.33 EUR)
• Fuel at Maverick at Reno: 60.25 USD (56.44 EUR)
• Dinner at Golden Flower Vietname at Reno: 32.75 USD (30.68 EUR)
• J Resort at Reno: 55.14 USD (51.75 EUR). Today is even cheaper than yesterday..

Day 6: Chopper on the Summit

Two days of relaxation at the J Resort left me feeling refreshed and energized. My first stop was Star Peak. After driving through Fernley and passing the stunning Lower and Upper Humboldt Lakes, I turned right at the thermal power plant near Rye Patch Reservoir and followed a challenging unpaved road to the peak. From there, I continued to Mount Lewis.

My journey continued through Winnemucca, Battle Mountain, Carlin, Elko, and Wells before reaching Wendover. This unique town straddles the Nevada-Utah border, divided into West Wendover and Wendover. After careful consideration, I found a comfortable and affordable motel to spend the night.

Star Peak

Costs, logistics…

• Breakfast at McDonalds at Reno: 11.22 USD (10.50 EUR)
• Grossery store at N GO at Lovelock: 7.47 USD (6.99 EUR)
• Fuel at N GO at Lovelock: 36.87 USD (34.48 EUR)
• Fuel at Maverick at Elko: 49.12 USD (45.95 EUR)
• Dinner at McDonalds at Elko: 14.44 USD (13.51 EUR)
• Motel 6 at Wendover : 62.25 USD (58.25 EUR).

Day 7: Talus, Talus and More Talus

I woke up refreshed in Wendover and enjoyed a quick breakfast before setting off. Following a suggested 20-kilometer shortcut, I found myself on a challenging road through a stunning landscape. After a demanding hike to Pilot Peak, I was greeted by the breathtaking expanse of the Bonneville Salt Flats. The temptation to explore was strong, but the nearest legal U-turn was a daunting 70 kilometers away. Undeterred, I pressed on, eager to reach Salt Lake City. Exhausted from the day’s adventures, I found a secluded spot in a petrol station parking lot to rest for the night.

Pilot Peak

Costs, logistics…

• Breakfast at McDonalds at Wendover: 6.40 USD (5.98 EUR)
• Fuel at Pilot at Lake Point: 37.12 USD (34.77 EUR)
• Dinner at McDonalds at Lake Point: 11.42 USD (10.68 EUR)

Day 8: Not So Flat Top Mountain

Waking up at the edge of the Great Salt Lake, in the unlikely setting of a Lake Point gas station, I quickly fueled myself before heading south. My target: Flat Top Mountain. The journey took me through Welch Canyon, where I embarked on a hike to the summit.

Deciding to return to the comfort of my Wendover motel for some work, I made a detour. The Bonneville Salt Flats beckoned, and I couldn’t resist. Walking barefoot across the otherworldly expanse, especially as the sun began to set, was an unforgettable experience.

Bonneville Salt Flats

Costs, logistics…

• Breakfast at McDonalds at Lake Point 5.60 USD (5.24 EUR)
• Grossery stroe ar Soelbergs at Grantsville: 19.91 USD (18.65 EUR)
• Dinner at Montego Bay Paradise Grill at Wendover: 34.00 USD (31.88 EUR)
• Motel 6 at Wendover : 62.25 USD (58.25 EUR).

Day 9: Racing with Thunders

Leaving Wendover behind, I embarked on a scenic drive through White Horse Pass, skirting the Goshute Peak Wilderness Study Area and winding through the Boone Spring Hills. Turning right, I ventured into the dramatic High Schell Wilderness. As a thunderstorm approached, I took shelter, waiting for it to pass before ascending North Schell Peak. The day concluded in the quintessential Western town of Ely, where I checked into a motel and enjoyed a hearty dinner.

North Schell Peak

Costs, logistics…

• Breakfast at McDonalds at Wendover 5.23 USD (4.91 EUR)
• Fuel at Pony Express Gas Mart at McGill: 30.17 USD (28.34 EUR)
• Grosery store at Shell at Ely: 16.90 USD (15.87 EUR)
• Fuel at Shell at Ely: 25.48 USD (23.94 EUR)
• Dinner at Mr. Gino’s Restaurant at Ely: 34.00 USD (31.88 EUR)
• Manguson Hotel Ely : 92.32 USD (86.74 EUR). Bit more expensive, but comfortable place

Day 10: Highest Peak of the Trip

After a satisfying breakfast, I headed southeast towards Great Basin National Park. Despite its reputation as the least visited national park in the US, I encountered a surprising number of fellow adventurers on the trail to Wheeler Peak. The hike was a rewarding experience, offering isolation, impressive prominence, and a satisfying climb. Upon returning, I opted for another night’s rest in the comfortable confines of my Ely motel.

Wheeler Peak

Costs, logistics…

• Fuel at Ridley’s at Ely: 50.98 USD (47.90 EUR)
• Dinner at La Fiesta Mexican restourant: 26.00 USD (24.42 EUR)
• Manguson Hotel Ely : 87.62 USD (82.32 EUR). Again i choose this quite expensive, but at least comfortable place

Day 11: Really Remote Peak

After a hearty breakfast, I embarked on a lengthy drive towards Arc Dome. The final fifty kilometers were a grueling test on a rugged, unpaved road. The hike to the summit was long but relatively easy, with Arc Dome offering a straightforward ascent.

Continuing south, I relied heavily on my fuel tank as the road transformed into a barely discernible track for the next hundred kilometers. The desolate beauty of countless canyons accompanied me on this solitary journey. Emerging from this wilderness, I reached a paved road near Tonopah.

I passed through Montgomery Pass and continued my journey. Later, in Bishop, I had a chance to meet with Mihai, who had just returned from his Asian mountaineering expedition. Our handshake was a brief exchange between fellow adventurers. As darkness approached, I found a secluded spot on the roadside to rest for the night.

Arc Dome

Costs, logistics…

• Fuel at Champs at Eureka: 20.01 USD (18.80 EUR)
• Grosery store at Champs at Eureka: 2.87 USD (2.69 EUR)
• Fuel at Joe Dorys Station at Austin: 36.76 USD (34.54 EUR)
• Dinner at Denny’s at Bishop: 23.18 USD (21.77 EUR)

Day 12: California Dream

Taking advantage of the early morning, I hit the road south, passing through Big Pine, Independence, Ridgecrest, and Adelanto. As I cruised along the Mojave Freeway, a majestic mountain range emerged on the horizon. After navigating through Rancho Cucamonga, I turned north towards Mount Baldy. A leisurely hike to the summit of Mount San Antonio concluded this adventure on a high note. Having explored ten ultra-prominent peaks and several Ribus, I felt a sense of accomplishment. Seeking well-deserved comfort, I checked into a hotel in Manhattan Beach, enjoying the proximity to LAX for my upcoming departure.

Mount San Antonio

Costs, logistics…

• Fuel at Shell at Big Pine: 57.89 USD (54.20 EUR)
• Grosery store at Shell at Big Pine: 4.28 USD (4.01 EUR)
• First car wash at Shell at Pico Rivera: 12.00 USD (11.23 EUR)
• Fuel at Circle K at Manhatan Beach: 55.13 USD (51.74 EUR)
• Second car wash at Circle K at Manhatan Beach: 18.00 USD (16.89 EUR). It was so much dust that i need second car wash.
• Dinner at Denny’s at Manhatan Beach: 20.03 USD (18.74 EUR)
• The Crimson Hotel at Manhatan Beach : 96.22 USD (90.04 EUR)

Day 14: Home is Calling

Washing the car before returning it to Sixt, I found everything in good shape—no scratches, no damages, thanks to full insurance. The 11-hour flight to Frankfurt was easy and pleasant. After landing, everyone congratulated the stewardess on her last working flight after 35 years of service.

But then the fun began. My flight to Vilnius was delayed, then delayed again. We boarded the plane only to hear the pilot announce the flight was canceled. Interesting way to break the news. We disembark. A Lufthansa representative rudely informs us there are no hotels and she doesn’t know how the situation will be resolved. She even threatens to call the police on anyone recording the scene, demanding everyone delete their videos. Quality service, right? The priority is profit, not service.

Some robot rescheduled my flight via London for the next evening, meaning I’d be home in two days. After hours on the phone and messenger, I managed to get a direct flight for the next afternoon. It cost some energy and a sleepless night on the airport floor. Thanks, Lufthansa. Hope your shareholders are happy. Never mind, I had a great two weeks in the mountains.

Costs, logistics…

• Lunch at Panda Express at LAX Airport: 20.35 USD (18.09 EUR)
• Cofee at Vanila Bake Shop at LAX Airport: 4.65 USD (4.36 EUR)
• Lufthansa on board WiFi provided by T-Mobile: 9 EUR

Thanks

On this trip, I owe a big thanks to fellow peak baggers for their valuable information about peaks and trails. Every aspect of the journey, from hotels and transportation to hiking plans, was self-organized. While organizing it all took some time, the enjoyment was immense. Haha!