This is my first Whitney trip (round trip in one day) and I have a reservation confirmed at the end of July (near the new moon). I plan to leave early, 2 to 3AM.

Questions:
Is there someone there in the middle of the night to check permits or do they check later on the trail? I would assume that 12AM would be the earliest allowable leave time for a specified day?

Is there usually enough places to park a car at the trailhead?

Are there any rattle snakes up at these elevations? If so, anyone had problems with rattlers during the night hike?

Is it better to camp inside or stay somewhere in Lone Pine?


Thanks.