Thanks! looks good
That must be the sign I vaguely remember barely seeing thru the bushes from the main trail at the trail junction.
Sounds like I don't need to worry the first day. I'll get the next-day permit and head up for a day hike as far as I can get or LBSL, whichever comes first.
I'm mainly worried about the ledges. I shouldn't have any trouble day hiking past them.
Thanks all!
Joel, you SHOULD get to LBSL. It's not far from where the North Fork splits off from the main trail. It's the first suitable camping spot IMO. A guy who has been to Whitney multiple times like yourself shouldn't have a problem. I would personally try to make it to UBSL as the lowest camping spot, if not shoot for Iceberg.
Joe, take the high route next time. You made it more difficult for yourself. I always see people heading down, and ask why. Stay on the slab where you're keeping your left hand. The cairn below doesn't make sense to me.