Everest Challenge Climbs — Schulman Grove

Schulman Grove ==> 10100'

21 miles long, average grade 6%, max. grade 15%, elevation gain 6160'

The elevation gain and length of this climb make it the hardest of all the climbs, but it’s your last climb. The last few miles you’ll encounter a series of tight switchbacks which approach 18% brief, and thus very challenging after two grueling days. Grin and bear it, and then for the last 1-2 miles go for it, because you’ll top out soon, and the grade is not bad at all.

The finish is right up to the visitor center area (about 1/3 mile farther than the 2004 finish I experienced).

Tips

Temperature at the summit can be in the 35-45° F range, and the wind child while descending down can be very cold. Do not sit around and get chilled— descend right away wearing the jacket you had brought up in your gear bag.

Hydration can be a serious factor on Schulman Grove— drinking 2 liters of water on a 2:26 climb left me dehydrated due to the 100° temperatures and hair-dryer wind at the bottom of the climb, with notable impairment by the summit. Definitely a 3 liter climb for me in such hot conditions. Be sure to use the rest stop at 8000' mark and/or the spring at the 6000' mark.

Route

See the route from Hwy 168 at Death Valley Road / Waucoba Canyon Rd to the summit of White Mountain Road / Schulman Grove.

Everest Challenge Stage Race — Schulman Grove

As you ascend, a natural spring can be found near a pullout on the left side of the road just shy of the 6000' elevation sign (right side of road). The water is apparently potable, and useful for soaking clothing to cool down.

Schulman Grove climb— natural spring water just shy of the 6000' elevation sign
Everest Challenge Stage Race

White Mountain Rd just after turning off Hwy 168
Everest Challenge Stage Race

Approaching the finish of Schulman Grove with about 2 miles to go
Everest Challenge Stage Race

Climbing the last mile of the Schulman Grove climb of the Everest Challege Stage Race (self portrait)
Sony NEX-5 with Sony 16mm f/2.8 lens

The descent down White Mountain Rd from Schulman Grove
Sony NEX-5 with Sony 16mm f/2.8 lens