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?
The only way I've ever seen permit checks is when you meet a ranger on the trail. They don't even have to ask you. The permit is a brightly colored tag about 4" X 8" that has a wire twist you use use to put it in view on your pack. Day hikers get one color, backpackers get another color. That way the ranger can just look and based on what you're carrying judge what color the tag should be. If he doesn't see it he'll open a conversation with you.
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?
The lot empties out quite a bit by the end of the day due to the day hikers leaving. Your best bet is to drive up to the TH, dump your pack ( make sure someone is there to watch it otherwise bears might drag it off ), and then park in the overflow parking. It's a short walk away.
Is it better to camp inside or stay somewhere in Lone Pine?
Thanks.
I'd say camp at altitude. That could mean at the Portal, or Horseshoe Meadow, or else where depending on where you're coming from. You'll need all the time at altitude you can get. Maybe come a day or two early?
