Hi Chris, nice report -- short and to the point (in fact, you didn't say what you did all day Monday; guess it wasn't worth mentioning).

Was this your first ascent? I get the feeling it was, but sounds like you did your homework, and got yourself conditioned for the hike. Nice to see a plan come off without a hitch (except for the hotel; not your fault). And you made good time!

As a Scoutmaster, I can't recommend doing this solo (gotta set a good example for the boys). Yes, some will say that the Whitney Trail is so crowded that you're never alone, but if you got hurt bad enough, it would require strangers to alter their plans to help you. Better to bring a buddy.

Anyway, I'm not here to judge, and I haven't been on the MWT for a few years now, and I'm envious of everybody who goes up there. Glad you had a good time with no incidents.

-- Rich in Los Al