Regarding marmots:
Interesting... I've not seen that story before. Google can't find the same text anywhere else, either. From the spelling and comments, I am not sure how reliable it is.
The Mineral King story is from July, 2004. The problem at Mineral King was talked up quite a bit back then, but I haven't seen much lately.
If it were a big problem, we'd have heard much more about it. I wouldn't cancel the trip.
If you want more reassurance, I'd call the Inyo N.F. people and ask specifically when the last time any marmot damage was reported. ...and please let us know.
