...I'm debating between trail runners and slightly more robust Columbia boots. Any recommendations on that for early October? Are there still streams you actually need to walk through to cross, and if so, would you recommend wearing gaiters? Wet feet on Whitney in October does NOT sound appealing (more like a recipe for disaster).
Since snow has already started to accumulate up high, go with the Columbias, and include gaiters. You won't be walking in streams - plenty of logs and strategic rocks, but wear a warmer boot.
