Yes, it is almost 10,000'. A hike up there and spending the night would be good. Get into the Visitor Center before 11, and they may give you the insider's advantage: Since you can pick up the permit for the next day that morning, AND they will not have started giving out the current-day's no-shows, you might be able to get it and go.
Since you're not getting much acclimation time, try to get to Lone Pine lake and go no further. Just rest the rest of the day -- resting rather than charging ahead gives your body time to acclimate. Next day, maybe climb only to Consultation Lake -- nice camping there, off trail. And again, take it easy! ...take reading material. You will need it.
On summit day, you should be well rested and fairly well acclimated.
I would definitely take some Diamox along -- get a prescription, try it at home (2 doses, only 125 mg every 12 hours) to make sure you don't have any bad side-effects.
Last edited by Steve C; 06/06/11 09:53 AM.
