I did a day hike on July 17th. Entered the Mount Whitney Zone midnight and slept for a while at Trail Camp before summiting at 10 A.M.
Using trail shoes and treking poles most of the main trail was well lit by the moon and unobstructed. However there were several snow fields which were hard frozen overnight and had to be negotiated with care. These same sections turn to slush during the day and make for easier hiking. I decided not to use microspikes and they turned out not to be needed. On the other hand, the snowfields before Trailside Meadow, Trail Crest and on the summit approach would have been a little easier with them.
This is a wonderful place and a beautiful hike. It is magical to see the high granite walls beaming in the moonlight.
