The highest point in the continental United States
Mt. Whitney
The highest point in the contiguous United States happens to be just a few hours drive from Orange County, also less than 90 miles away from Whitney is the lowest point in North America at 282 feet below sea level. At 14,508 ft. Mt Whitney is a very challenging hike but well worth the reward of being on the top of the sierras.
A permit is needed and can be acquired by entering a lottery with the US Forest Service since only a limited number are given out per day in order to keep the areas beauty intact. You can also show up the day before you want to hike and try to get a permit from the Lone Pine Ranger Office if some hikers don't show up to get their permits.
You will need to get acclimated for this hike, you can do this by driving up to the parking lot 1 or 2 days before your hike and camping in the parking lot campgrounds or by hiking and camping at outpost camp or trail camp which are both farther up the trail, altitude sickness affects everyone differently. Total distance for this hike is about 22 miles. At the trailhead, there is a general store called "Whitey Portal Store" which has a great cafe and backpacking supplies for anything you may have forgotten to pack.
Mt. Whitney Trailhead
Whitney Portal Rd.
Lone Pine, CA 93545